Defense Minister Yisrael Katz conducted a situational assessment on Sunday and announced a sharp escalation in IDF operations in Lebanon. The new directives focus on fully isolating southern Lebanon by destroying all bridges over the Litani River and intensifying the pace of demolitions in frontline villages.

Katz said that he and Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu ordered the IDF to immediately destroy all bridges over the Litani River that are used for terrorist activity. The purpose is to create a complete blockade that will prevent Hezbollah terrorists and weapons from moving toward the Israeli border. This move follows the destruction of two additional bridges last week that had served as major smuggling routes.

Katz also ordered an acceleration in the demolition of structures in Lebanese villages near the border, stating that operations are being carried out according to a “Gaza model,” similar to actions taken in Beit Hanoun and Rafah. The goal is to eliminate threats to Israeli communities and prevent Hezbollah from reestablishing a presence along the front line.

At the same time, IDF Arabic-language spokesperson Col. Avichay Adraee issued an urgent warning to residents of southern Lebanon. He stated that Hezbollah is using civilians as cover to move operatives and equipment. He warned that the IDF is preparing a wide and precise strike and identified the Al-Qasmiya Bridge on the coastal highway as a target. Civilians were urged to avoid heading south and to remain north of the Zahrani River for their safety.

On the ground, troops from the 91st Division, together with the Israeli Air Force, killed nine Hezbollah terrorists in southern Lebanon as part of efforts to expand the security buffer zone. The incident began when Unit 869 identified an armed cell approaching IDF forces. Ground troops engaged the cell, and the Air Force carried out a rapid strike to eliminate them. No Israeli casualties were reported.

Reports in the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat indicate that IDF forces are advancing into Lebanon along four main axes, aiming to secure key positions and isolate the southern region.