Iran Daily Briefing: Israel Expands Operations Into Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Deal

Israel is expanding its military operations deeper into Lebanese territory despite an ongoing ceasefire agreement, according to recent reports from Israeli defense officials and field observations.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing to advance into areas of southern Lebanon previously held by Hezbollah, citing the need to prevent the group from re-establishing military infrastructure near the border. The announcement came during a security briefing where Katz emphasized that Israel would not allow a return to the status quo before the recent hostilities.

The expansion follows a series of Israeli strikes in Lebanon that have continued despite the ceasefire, which was brokered by the United States and intended to halt hostilities between Israel, Lebanon, and Iran-aligned factions. Israeli officials maintain that their actions are defensive and aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s capabilities, particularly in response to rocket fire and border incursions attributed to the group.

Reports indicate that Israeli forces have conducted ground incursions into villages along the Litani River, moving beyond the initial buffer zone established under the ceasefire terms. These operations have included the destruction of suspected weapons storage sites and the establishment of new military outposts in areas previously under Lebanese civilian administration.

The developments have drawn concern from international observers, who warn that the escalation risks undermining the fragile ceasefire and could provoke a broader regional response. Lebanese officials have accused Israel of violating the agreement and called for urgent intervention by the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to monitor and report on Israeli movements.

Meanwhile, the United States has reiterated its support for Israel’s right to defend itself while urging restraint to preserve the ceasefire framework. U.S. Officials have engaged in diplomatic talks with both Israeli and Lebanese leaders to de-escalate tensions, though no public commitments to halt Israeli advances have been made.

The situation remains fluid, with sporadic exchanges of fire reported along the border and displacement of civilians continuing in affected areas. Humanitarian organizations have noted growing needs among populations caught in the crossfire, particularly in towns where access to basic services has been disrupted by ongoing military activity.