Netanyahu says Israeli forces crossed Lebanon’s Litani River

DUBAI - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Friday that Israeli forces had crossed Lebanon's Litani River and advanced.

Speaking during a visit to Division 36 on Israel's northern border, Netanyahu said Israeli forces were also operating in Beirut and the Bekaa Valley as part of actions against Hezbollah across the Lebanese front.

The Litani River, located approximately 30 kilometers north of the Israel-Lebanon border, has long held strategic importance in the region. It serves as a natural boundary and has featured prominently in past Israeli operations in Lebanon, including the 1978 Operation Litani. Crossing the river represents a notable expansion of Israel’s ground operations beyond previously declared security zones in southern Lebanon.

Israeli officials have framed the advance as necessary to neutralize Hezbollah’s capabilities to launch rockets, drones, and other attacks on northern Israeli communities. Netanyahu’s comments come amid ongoing efforts to establish what Israel calls a “security zone” or “buffer zone” to protect its northern border.

The announcement follows months of escalating tensions and intermittent clashes between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. Recent Israeli strikes have targeted areas across southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and even parts of Beirut, according to reports. Hezbollah has responded with attacks on Israeli positions, leading to intensified fighting in areas like Zawtar al-Sharqieh north of the Litani.

This development occurs against the backdrop of US-mediated talks between Israeli and Lebanese delegations aimed at ceasefire enforcement and potential withdrawals. Despite these diplomatic efforts, ground operations appear to be deepening rather than de-escalating.

Lebanese officials and media have reported significant civilian displacement, with residents fleeing areas north of the Litani River due to intensified airstrikes and evacuation warnings. Humanitarian concerns are rising as infrastructure, including bridges over the Litani, has been damaged or destroyed.

Netanyahu’s Message to Troops and the Region

During his visit, Netanyahu praised the “immense fighting spirit” of Division 36 soldiers and emphasized Israel’s determination to continue operations until its security objectives are met. The prime minister has repeatedly stated that the goal is to dismantle Hezbollah’s military infrastructure and restore safety to northern Israel, where tens of thousands of residents remain displaced.

Hezbollah has vowed to resist the Israeli advance, claiming successful clashes with advancing troops. The group continues to position itself as a defender against Israeli incursions, while Lebanon’s government faces pressure to deploy its army south of the Litani as part of any long-term resolution.

The crossing of the Litani River risks further complicating diplomatic efforts and could lead to a broader regional escalation involving Iran and other actors. International observers are closely monitoring the situation, with calls for restraint and renewed ceasefire negotiations.