Lebanese army redeploys along southern border as Israeli incursion continues
2026-03-04 - 23:02
The Lebanese army announced Wednesday that it has redeployed forces at several positions along the southern border with Israel, responding to Tel Aviv's ground incursion into Lebanese territory that began two days ago. A military statement described the move as necessary "in light of continued Israeli attacks on various regions, and the Israeli incursion into Lebanese territory in a blatant violation of international resolutions and Lebanese sovereignty." Coordination with UN forces The army stated it is continuing coordination with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and the ceasefire oversight committee in efforts to halt Israeli attacks. The redeployment at some border points occurs "within their designated areas of responsibility, given the limited capabilities available," along with "taking exceptional measures to maintain security and prevent armed displays in various regions." The military also reinforced forces along the country's eastern border in coordination with Syrian authorities. Israeli incursion expands Earlier Wednesday, Israeli forces deployed near the main municipal building in the border town of Khiam as part of the ongoing ground operation in southern Lebanon. The incursion follows days of escalating cross-border violence that has claimed at least 72 lives and injured nearly 450 others in Lebanon since Monday, according to official figures, after Hezbollah rocket fire drew Israeli retaliation. Ceasefire violations mount Israel has repeatedly violated the ceasefire agreement signed with Hezbollah in November 2024, carrying out near-daily strikes that have left hundreds dead and wounded. Israel's offensive against Lebanon began in October 2023 and escalated into full-scale war in September 2024, resulting in more than 4,000 deaths and approximately 17,000 wounded. The current ground incursion threatens to expand the conflict further as Lebanon's army, with limited capabilities, attempts to maintain security while confronting Israeli military operations on its soil.