Key facts
- The Israeli military ordered residents of Deir Zahrani in southern Lebanon to evacuate.
- Air strikes followed the evacuation orders in Deir Zahrani, resulting in numerous casualties.
- Israel declared a new combat zone in southern Lebanon, encompassing territory south of the Zahrani River.
- The military warned it would act with great force against Hezbollah in the declared zone.
- Lebanese authorities reported significant casualties and displacement following recent Israeli strikes.
- The scale of displacement is straining regional resources, with shelters reaching capacity.
The Israeli military issued evacuation orders for Deir Zahrani in southern Lebanon early Monday, with local media reporting air strikes on the area minutes later that resulted in numerous casualties. This action follows Israel's declaration of a new combat zone in southern Lebanon, encompassing territory south of the Zahrani River, approximately 40 kilometers north of the Israeli border.
Israeli officials stated they would act with great force against Hezbollah in the designated zone, urging civilians to stay away from the group's operatives and facilities. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that further action in Lebanon is necessary to protect communities in northern Israel from Hezbollah. The latest orders represent the largest evacuation since a ceasefire announced on April 16, covering about 14% of Lebanese territory.
Lebanese security sources reported that people were fleeing north to Sidon, a city already hosting thousands displaced from other parts of southern Lebanon. Shelters in Sidon have reached full capacity, and local authorities are advising residents to travel further north to Beirut. The Lebanese health ministry reported at least 11 people killed in recent strikes, while an Israeli drone strike on a family attempting to flee killed six, including children. Fighting has continued despite the April 16 ceasefire, with both Israel and Hezbollah accusing each other of violations.