Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Announces Expansion of 'Security Zone' in Southern Lebanon

Kathmandu. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the expansion of a 'security zone' in southern Lebanon. Israel is taking this step to neutralize the threat of anti-tank missiles.

Posting on the social media platform X, Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the expansion of the security zone will create a 'large buffer zone' and will help prevent potential ground attacks by the Iran-backed armed group Hezbollah.

In recent days, the Israeli army has destroyed various bridges over the Litani River, located about 30 kilometers from the Lebanon-Israel border, by detonating them. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant claimed that Hezbollah uses those bridges for transporting terrorists and weapons.

Defense Minister Gallant clarified on Tuesday that thousands of displaced Lebanese citizens will not be able to return to their homes immediately. He stated, 'Displaced Lebanese will not be allowed to return south of the Litani River until the security of the residents in Israel's northern region is fully ensured.'

Analysts say that this latest move by Israel is likely to further escalate tensions with Lebanon. Analysts have stated that Israel is adopting a strategy to take the security zone deeper to secure its northern border.