Israel army declares south Lebanon a “death zone” amid escalation

Thursday 16 April 2026 - 11:40

By: Dakir Madiha

Israel army declares south Lebanon a “death zone” amid escalation

Israel’s army chief ordered that all territory south of the Litani River be treated as a combat zone targeting Hezbollah fighters. The directive marks a sharp escalation in a six week conflict that began on March 2 and has intensified across southern Lebanon. Israeli officials say more than 1,700 Hezbollah fighters have been killed since the start of hostilities, describing the group as weakened after sustained strikes.

Israeli forces have systematically targeted infrastructure along the Litani River. Since mid March, at least nine bridges have been hit, cutting key routes between southern Lebanon and the rest of the country. The Qasmieh bridge near Tyre, one of the last major crossings, was damaged in early April during a major offensive operation. Lebanese teams briefly restored limited access, but repeated strikes have severely restricted movement. Humanitarian organizations warn that the destruction risks isolating tens of thousands of civilians from food, medical care, and aid.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to expand Israel’s buffer zone eastward inside Lebanon. He said the move would strengthen security and support allied communities. Fighting has focused on the town of Bint Jbeil, which Israeli officials describe as a key Hezbollah stronghold. The army reports striking more than 200 targets in 24 hours, including rocket launchers and militant positions. Officials also signaled that Israeli forces could remain in southern Lebanon for an extended period, pointing to plans for a deeper and more permanent security zone.

Lebanon’s health ministry reports that at least 2,167 people have been killed and more than 7,000 injured since early March. The dead include 168 children and dozens of medical workers. More than one million people have been displaced, representing over 20 percent of the population. Recent incidents have drawn condemnation after rescue teams responding to earlier strikes were hit again in Nabatieh, raising concerns about repeated attacks on emergency workers and the growing toll on civilians.