Israel tightens control over southern Lebanon region

Israel has instructed residents of southern Lebanon to avoid a designated area near the Litani River, reinforcing its control over the region despite a ceasefire with Hezbollah.The U.S.-mediated ceasefire, effective from last Thursday, has slowed hostilities between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which escalated from the U.S.-Iran conflict.

Ceasefire tensions

Israeli forces remain in southern Lebanon, aiming to establish a buffer against Hezbollah attacks, while Hezbollah insists it has the right to respond to Israeli actions.

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri mentioned ongoing U.S. efforts to prolong the ceasefire after discussions with the U.S. ambassador to Lebanon.

Following significant diplomatic contacts between Israel and Lebanon, the U.S. plans a second round of talks on Thursday, which Hezbollah opposes.

Israeli-Lebanese hostilities resumed on March 2 when Hezbollah fired in alignment with Tehran, prompting an Israeli offensive that reportedly killed around 2,300 people in Lebanon.

The Israeli military shared a map showing a safety zone encompassing 21 southern villages, advising residents to stay away from this area due to ongoing threats from Hezbollah.

The map also marked over 50 villages where residents should not return, especially around the Litani River, which is located 30 km north of the border.

Nabatieh, Lebanon, April 18, 2026. REUTERS/Zohra Bensemra

Israeli forces have been demolishing structures in southern villages, claiming they target Hezbollah infrastructure embedded in civilian areas over the years.

Senior Lebanese politician Ali Hassan Khalil condemned the destruction in 39 occupied villages since the ceasefire, calling it a “clear war crime.”

The Israeli military has not responded to requests for comment about the demolitions or other operations in the region.

An Israeli military spokesman did not provide details on the extent of destruction in the south, asserting the military’s actions do not involve removing entire villages.

A recent image of a desecrated crucifix in a southern Lebanese Christian village has drawn strong condemnation from officials in Israel, the U.S., and various church organisations.