Israel declares new area of Lebanon 'a combat zone'

Israel’s military declared southern Lebanon south of the Zahrani River a combat zone, instructing residents to evacuate northward due to escalating operations against Hezbollah. The order, issued via social media, covers approximately 2,000 square kilometers and follows over 120 strikes on Lebanon the previous day, despite a US-brokered ceasefire announced on 16 April. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified further action as necessary to protect northern Israeli communities from Hezbollah attacks. This is the first time Israel has ordered mass evacuations across the entire zone south of the Zahrani River, previously limiting directives to areas south of the Litani River. Lebanese security sources report civilians fleeing north to Sidon, already hosting displaced populations. The Israeli military reiterated warnings for civilians to avoid Hezbollah operatives, facilities, and weapons sites. Since March 2, over 1.2 million Lebanese have been displaced by Israeli strikes and evacuation orders, with Lebanon’s health ministry reporting over 3,200 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed at least 608 fatalities from Israeli attacks since the ceasefire, while Israel stated 10 of its soldiers were killed, six by Hezbollah’s explosive drones. Ground operations in southern Lebanon have expanded beyond occupied security zones, though details remain undisclosed. Beirut has avoided new strikes, though Israeli surveillance drones and warplanes remain active overhead. Three senior Israeli officials noted Israel retains operational freedom in southern Lebanon but faces constraints in Beirut, avoiding actions that could undermine potential US-Iran negotiations. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) highlighted a worsening mental health crisis in Lebanon, with civilians enduring repeated displacement and trauma from ongoing conflict.