Israel Expands Lebanon Offensive, Strikes Iran, and Details Security Zone to the Litani

Overview

• Israel said it carried out more than 70 strikes inside Iran in 24 hours, targeting sites used to launch missiles and drones in and around Tehran.
• The army plans to seek approval for a security zone that reaches the Litani River, with demolition of border homes, new forward positions, and a ban on returns until the threat recedes.
• While leaders restated a long-term aim to disarm Hezbollah, a senior Israeli official told The Times of Israel that complete disarmament now is unrealistic and not required for this campaign.
• The IDF reported recent airstrikes in south Lebanon that killed 15 Hezbollah fighters, and said ground units continue to find weapons and infrastructure near the border.
• The UN reports more than 1.2 million people in Lebanon have been displaced and at least about 1,000 have been killed, as widespread damage and blocked bridges make daily life harder in the south.