Israeli military launches ‘targeted ground operations’ in southern Lebanon

(Al Jazeera Media Network) The Israeli military says its troops have launched ‘limited and targeted ground operations‘ in southern Lebanon as fighting against Hezbollah intensifies around the strategic southern town of Khiam.At least three air strikes struck the city of Khiam, Al Jazeera Arabic reported on Monday.

Khiam, a stronghold of Hezbollah, is strategically located and is seen as a gateway to southern Lebanon.

The latest war started after Hezbollah fired rockets in response to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Hezbollah had not attacked Israel since the 2024 ceasefire despite repeated Israeli violations of the United States-brokered deal.

On Monday morning, two Israeli air raids targeted the town of Yater, Al Jazeera Arabic reported. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

Israel also launched raids on Burj Qalawiya, Sultaniya and Chaqra, also in southern Lebanon, according to Al Jazeera Arabic. Two raids were also conducted on the towns of Qantara and as-Sawana.

“In recent days, IDF troops from the 91st division have begun limited and targeted ground operations against key Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon, aimed at enhancing the forward defence area,” the military said in a statement.

“This operation is part of the effort to establish the forward defence, which includes destroying terrorist infrastructure and eliminating terrorists,” it added.

Later Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated: “The IDF has begun a ground operation in Lebanon to eliminate threats and protect the residents of the Galilee and the North. The hundreds of thousands of Shiite [Shia] residents of southern Lebanon who have been and are being evacuated from their homes will not return to their homes south of the Litani River until the security of the residents of the North is guaranteed.”

Khiam sits on high ground just a few kilometres from the Israeli border and the Litani River, giving it a commanding view over northern Israel and nearby Lebanese plains.

Lebanese authorities announced on Monday that more than 1,000,000 people, including women and children, have now been forced to flee from their homes after the Israeli army issued evacuation orders for many neighbourhoods in southern Lebanon, as well as the capital, Beirut.

Israeli attacks in Lebanon have so far killed at least 850 people, among them 107 children and 66 women.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/3/16/israeli-military-launches-limited-ground-operations-in-southern-lebanon