Israel accuses Hezbollah of using civilian areas in South for 'terrorist purposes'

The Arabic-speaking spokesman for the Israeli army, Avichay Adraee, once again accused Hezbollah on Thursday of using civilian areas in southern Lebanon "for terrorist purposes," specifying that "in recent months, the army has neutralized ten terrorists from nine different villages in the southern region of Lebanon."

"The neutralized terrorists acted as the executive arm of Hezbollah in these villages," he added, emphasizing that these individuals operated "deliberately among civilians and through them, in the fields of reconstruction, education, social services, and infrastructure, which were exploited to develop terrorist activities."

The spokesperson also claimed that members of the party "took control of civilian areas and private properties" and "consolidated a terrorist infrastructure in the heart of residential areas, exploiting the inhabitants to advance Hezbollah's terrorist goals." He concluded, "the army will continue its actions aimed at eliminating any threat and defending the State of Israel."

On Wednesday, the Israeli army intensified its strikes in southern Lebanon, despite the truce concluded on Nov. 27, 2024, targeting villages in the districts of Saida and Nabatieh.

Several evacuation notices were issued before the bombings, which destroyed homes and buildings, leaving more than 50 families homeless and injuring 19 people, including journalists.

The Israeli army said these strikes prevent Hezbollah from "resuming its activities" and denounced the use of civilians as "human shields."