7 soldiers were lightly wounded in separate incidents in Lebanon, Israeli army confirms
Four Israeli soldiers were lightly wounded during operations in southern Lebanon, the army said.
In a separate incident, another soldier was lightly injured after a drone crashed in southern Lebanon, the Israeli army added, without providing further details, Haaretz reported.
It also said two soldiers were lightly injured in a "work accident" in northern Israel.
Update on Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon
- An Electricité du Liban (EDL) executive in the village of Habboush (Nabatieh district), Hussein Halal, was killed by an Israeli attack on the village, EDL said in a statement.
- Several Israeli strikes were reported this evening in southern Lebanon, notably in Shehabieh (Sour), Kafra (Bint Jbeil), more than once, in Debbine (Marjayoun), Ain Arab (Marjayoun), Qlayleh (Sour), Sheaitiyeh (Sour), and Tibnin (Bint Jbeil).
Hezbollah reports multiple attacks on Israeli forces in southern Lebanon
Hezbollah said Sunday evening that it targeted Israeli soldiers southeast of Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil) using drones, which it claimed, “achieved their objectives,” as Israeli troops attempted to advance into Lebanese territory.
Earlier, Hezbollah reported firing rockets at Israeli soldiers in Marwahine (Sour) and at troops and vehicles in Maroun al-Ras and Yaroun (Bint Jbeil).
Hezbollah also said it had targeted Israeli soldiers in Khiam around 7:50 p.m., a site of violent clashes for several days, and launched rocket fire toward Israeli troops in the village of Dhaira (Sour).
Israel claims Qasmieh bridge used by Hezbollah for weapons transfers
The Israeli army claimed strikes on the Qasmieh bridge, a key route linking Sour to Saida and the rest of Lebanon, targeted “a central passage used by members and commanders of Hezbollah to move from the north of the Litani River to the south,” according to Arabic-language spokeswoman Ella Waweya on X.
“Hezbollah used this crossing to transport thousands of weapons, as well as rockets and rocket launchers, used in operations against Israeli forces and citizens,” she added.
Noteworthy that the Qasmieh bridge had a Lebanese Army and UNIFIL troops post close to the site of the Israeli bombing.
Waweya also said that “about 15 sites affiliated with Hezbollah” were targeted in the Nabatieh area.
Israel should expect "several more weeks of fighting" against Hezbollah and Iran, Israeli army spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said Sunday on the 23rd day of the Middle East war.
"Every day that passes, we are weakening the [Iranian] terrorist regime. We will not allow the terror regime and its proxies to pose a threat to the citizens of Israel," he said in a televised address.
"Citizens of Israel, we are facing several more weeks of fighting against Iran and Hezbollah," the spokesman added.
"Ending this war today in Lebanon is our top priority and we are making all necessary diplomatic efforts to achieve this, hence our proposal for direct negotiations," Prime Minister Salam said.
Salam also criticized Hezbollah's argument that Israel was going to attack Lebanon, even though it had not fired six rockets at dawn on March 2. "Is it our role to go and provoke [Israel] or to avenge the death of Ali Khamenei? This is not the role of the Lebanese. This war is par excellence the war of others on our soil," he said.
"The displacement of the population is catastrophic; we have 644 reception centres throughout the country. Accusing the government of negligence towards the displaced is only intended to divert attention from Hezbollah's responsibility. We are not shirking our responsibilities and those who say so are seeking to run away from their own responsibilities in the outbreak of this war," Prime Minister Salam said.
Referring to the Israeli army's bombing of several bridges in southern Lebanon in recent days, including the strategic Qasmieh bridge today, Nawaf Salam said: "The destruction of the bridges is not a military operation but a criminal act and a catastrophe."
"We are working on the formation of a unified national delegation to negotiate with Israel," Prime Minister Salam said, adding that the objectives of any negotiations are "an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon and the return of Lebanese detained in Israeli jails."
Salam confident in army's unity, refuses to 'give in to Hezbollah's blackmail'
"I am not afraid for the unity of the Lebanese Army," Prime Minister Salam continued. "I am not calling for a confrontation with Hezbollah, on the contrary, I want to avoid such a confrontation."
"But I refuse to give in to Hezbollah's blackmail, and I ask it to respect the government's decisions," he added. "Our government won the confidence of Parliament twice, with the vote of Hezbollah," he recalled.
"No state can live if there are several decision-making centers and two armies," he said.
Salam says war has been imposed on Lebanon
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam told Saudi al‑Hadath channel on Sunday evening that “war has been imposed on us,” reflecting on the toll of the war for civilians.
He said, "The six rockets fired by Hezbollah [at dawn on March 2] cost 10,000 internally displaced persons."
Salam’s comments underline the growing concern in Beirut over the impact of the widening confrontation on ordinary Lebanese civilians with over 1.1 million forcibly displaced and over 1,000 people killed since the start of the war.
US State Department cautions Americans abroad
The U.S. State Department urged Americans abroad to "exercise increased vigilance" and follow security alerts issued by U.S. embassies and consulates, Haaretz reports.
It added, "Periodic airspace closures may cause trave disruptions," while "groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas or locations associated with the United States and/or Americans throughout the world."
This warning was issued as part of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). The last global warning was issued Feb. 28.
Hezbollah operations update
Hezbollah continued to announce its operations Sunday evening, including destroying an Israeli drone over Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon
Other reported operations include:
6:10 p.m. – Rockets fired toward northern Israel, hitting Meron's surveillance and air operations base and the Manara area
6:30 p.m. – Exploding drones targeted a barracks in Ramot Naftali (Upper Galilee, northern Israel)
6:45 p.m. – Rockets fired at al-Raheb site, near Aita al-Shaab (Bint Jbeil)
7:20 p.m. – Artillery fired at Israeli soldiers in Khiam (Marjeyoun)
7:30 p.m. – Rocket fire directed again toward northern Israel
Update on Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon
- Around 6:40 p.m. a fourth Israeli strike hit Sriri (Jezzine district); followed by an attack in Majdal Silm (Bint Jbeil) and the booby-trapping and destruction of a house in Mais al-Jabal (Marjayoun). Majdel Selm was targeted again at 7:40 p.m.
- After the Israeli army struck the Qasmieh bridge twice, the electricity network in Kharayeb (Saida) was damaged; EDL announced that repairs are planned for Monday
- The Israeli air force broke the sound barrier over several localities in southern Lebanon and the western Bekaa shortly after 7 p.m.
- Around 7:15 p.m., shelling reached the vicinity of Rashaya al-Foukhar (Hasbaya)
- At 7:50 p.m., Israeli planes targeted Jabbour hills (Jezzine)
Israel to 'intensify ground operations in Lebanon'
The Israeli army spokeswoman reported that IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said during the approval of plans for the next phase at the Northern Command headquarters yesterday that "the fighting against Hezbollah has only just begun."
"And with the end of the war in Iran, Hezbollah will find itself alone and isolated."
"The fight against Hezbollah will be long, and we are prepared for it."
The chief of staff held a meeting yesterday to approve plans to "intensify ground operations in Lebanon."
"We are now preparing to deepen maneuvers and strikes according to a structured plan. We will not stop until the threat is removed from our borders and the long-term security of the people of the northern region is ensured," he continued. Along with the strikes, the army is "strengthening the front line to protect the people of the northern region."
In addition, he said that he was focusing all efforts on Iran, but that "the northern front [near Lebanon's border] is another central theater, the two being linked."
He added that Hezbollah's decision to join the war "harms it and the entire Lebanese state."
Israel investigates whether civilian killed in Misgav Am was killed by friendly fire
The Israeli army said it is investigating whether its own soldiers were responsible for the death of a civilian in northern Israel, following conflicting reports about the incident.
Earlier Sunday, Israeli rescue services reported that a man was killed by the direct impact of a rocket fired at his car in Kibbutz Misgav Am, close to the border.
Hezbollah claimed its fighters had attacked Israeli soldiers in the area. The Israeli military later said it is conducting a thorough investigation and is examining “the possibility that the incident involved fire from Israeli soldiers.”
Heavy fighting continues in Khiam
Fighting in Khiam (Marjayoun district) showed no signs of easing on Sunday. A violent explosion was reported around 6:20 p.m., in a village that has been a hotspot of clashes between Hezbollah fighters and Israeli invading soldiers for several days.
Hezbollah said it had fired rockets at a group of Israeli soldiers in the village earlier, at 4:10 p.m.
A witness, speaking to our correspondent, said Israeli forces have taken control of the southern and eastern neighborhoods and are attempting to advance toward the northern neighborhood, aiming to seize a strategic hill called al-Jabali. The Israeli troops are regularly targeted by Hezbollah.
A photo of an Israeli flag reportedly planted in the village has circulated, but multiple sources say the image is not recent. Journalist Ali Shaib, from Hezbollah-affiliated al-Manar channel, noted the photo dates back to the 2024 war, during which Israeli forces briefly entered Khiam before the November 2024 cease-fire.
The witness told our correspondent it is difficult to verify current control of the village.
Hezbollah reports multiple attacks on Israelis
Hezbollah released several statements detailing attacks on Israeli troops in southern Lebanon and norther Israel. The party's militia announced:
- Rockets targeted a barracks in Avivim (Upper Galilee, northern Israel) for the second time; and a third time at 3:45.
- 3:30 p.m. - Targeted Israeli soldiers gathered in the newly established post in Jabal al-Bat in the border town of Aitaroun (Bint Jbeil)
- 3:40 p.m. - Missiles fired at Israeli troops in the forest of Aitaroun for the second time today.
- 3:45 p.m. - Artillery shells fired at Israeli soldiers north-east of the village of Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil).
- 3:50 p.m. - Rockets fired at Israeli soldiers and military vehicles gathered in Maroun al-Ras.
- 4 p.m. – Rockets fired at an Israeli soldiers gathered southwest of Alma al-Shaab (Sour).
- 4:10 p.m. – Rockets launched east of Khiam (Marjayoun) targeting Israeli troops and military vehicles.
- 4:35 p.m. – Slavo of rockets targeting Israeli troops east of Naqoura (Sour); and another slavo at Yarin (Sour), also targeting Israeli troops
Updates on Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon
- Around 5:20 p.m., the Israeli army booby-trapped and blew up a house in Robb Thalatine (Marjeyoun district).
- Shortly before 5:40 p.m., an Israeli airstrike hit Habboush (Nabatieh).
- Just before 6 p.m., the villages of Zawtar Sharqieh (Nabatieh) and the Sarira region (Jezzine) were targeted by the Israeli air force.
- At around 6:20 p.m., a violent explosion was heard in Khiam (Marjayoun), a hotspot of ongoing clashes between Hezbollah fighters and Israeli soldiers.
Israel strikes Qasmieh bridge, again — completely blocking it
Shortly before 6:30 p.m., An Israeli strike targeted the Qasmiye bridge over the Litani River, north of Sour. This is the second attack on the bridge today, a key route connecting Sour to Saida and the rest of Lebanon.
The road is now completely closed to all traffic, our regional correspondent reported.
US may need to 'escalate to de-escalate' against Iran, Treasury chief says
The United States may need to increase its military pressure on Iran to eventually wind down the war, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Sunday.
The statement comes after President Donald Trump gave seemingly contradictory statements about the U.S. campaign, saying his country was "very close" to achieving its objectives.
Asked on NBC’s "Meet the Press" whether the U.S. was winding down or escalating the war, Bessent said: “They’re not mutually exclusive. Sometimes you have to escalate to de-escalate. This is the only language the Iranians understand.”
Iran’s threats to shipping through the strait, which carries about 20 percent of global gas and oil supplies, have caused energy prices to spike worldwide. As part of efforts to ease market pressures, Bessent temporarily lifted U.S. sanctions on Iranian and Russian oil already loaded onto ships, a move critics say could fund Iran amid the ongoing war.
Bessent defended the decision, saying it helps U.S. partners and lowers the price Iran receives: “That Iranian oil was always going to be sold to the Chinese … Which is better? If oil prices spiked to $150 and they were getting 70 percent of that, or oil below 100?”
He did not give a timeline for when U.S. gas prices might stabilize, but argued the temporary costs are worth it: “But to have 50 years of peace in the Middle East and know that the Iranian regime is defanged, will be worth it.”
Aoun condemns Qasmieh bridge attack, warns of potential Israeli 'ground invasion'
President Joseph Aoun on Sunday condemned Israel’s targeting and destruction of vital state infrastructure in southern Lebanon, including the Qasmieh bridge in Sour's district over the Litani River, calling it a “dangerous escalation and a flagrant violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty” and warning of an imminent “ground invasion.”
Rai praises residents of south Lebanon villages
Maronite Patriarch Bechara Rai paid tribute on Sunday to residents of Christian villages in southern Lebanon who have remained despite ongoing Israeli bombardment, calling them "the true guardians of the nation."
From Bkirki, Rai expressed his “solidarity with those who stand firm in their villages, refusing war and calling for peace.”
A delegation from the southern village of Qaouzah attended the mass.
US, Israeli strikes caused 'heavy damage' to Iran's water, energy infrastructure
Iran's critical water and energy infrastructure have suffered extensive damage due to U.S. and Israeli strikes on tens of thousands of civilian sites, officials said on Sunday.
"The country's vital water and electricity infrastructure has suffered heavy damage following terrorist and cyber-attacks by the United States and the Zionist regime," said energy minister Abbas Aliabadi, according to ISNA news agency.
"The attacks targeted dozens of water transmission and treatment facilities and destroyed parts of critical water supply networks," he noted, adding that efforts were under way to repair the damage.
Iran's Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Kolivand said the total number of damaged civilian sites "has reached 81,365 based on the latest field assessments".
Update on Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon
- Shortly before 4 p.m., Israeli airstrikes targeted the villages of Bayada (Sour district), al-Katarani (Jezzine), and later Haniyeh and Naqoura (Sour).
- At around 4:20 p.m., an Israeli aristrike targeted Arab Salim (Nabatieh), followed by another strike on Naqoura, near a UNIFIL post and a Lebanese Army position.
Israeli army carries out wave of strikes on military sites in Tehran
The Israeli army announced that it conducted a series of airstrikes targeting military production sites and headquarters in Tehran.
The army spokesperson stated that Israeli forces are “continuing to intensify strikes against all systems and capabilities of the Iranian regime.”
Over the past 24 hours, the army said it targeted “infrastructure belonging to the Iranian regime in the Tehran area” based on intelligence reports.
“As part of these strikes, fighter jets dropped dozens of bombs on sites used by Iranian security services to produce and store military equipment,” she added.
The spokesperson specified that the strikes hit an “Iranian army base used for soldier training and missile system storage intended to target aircraft,” as well as a “production and storage site under the Iranian Defense Ministry, a site producing military equipment for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Air Force, and another Ministry of Intelligence headquarters along with an emergency center for internal security forces.”
“These strikes are part of an intensified phase of operations targeting the core systems and pillars of the Iranian regime,” the spokesperson said.
Iran threatens to close strategic Hormuz Strait amid escalating tensions with Washington
Iran will fully shut down the strategic Strait of Hormuz if Donald Trump carries out his threats to target Iranian energy facilities, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said in a statement released Sunday.
On Saturday, Donald Trump warned he would “wipe out” Iran’s power plants if Tehran did not completely reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, signaling a sharp escalation just one day after suggesting a possible “slowdown” in the conflict, now entering its fourth week.
In their Sunday statement, the Revolutionary Guards also warned that companies with American stakes would be “completely destroyed” if Iranian energy infrastructure were targeted by Washington. They added that energy facilities located in countries hosting U.S. military bases would be considered “legitimate” targets.
2 strikes in Sultanieh and Sawaneh kill 4 and injure 7
Th health ministry announced that three people were killed and three others injured in an Israeli strike targeting Sultanieh (Bint Jbeil).
Another Israeli strike on Sawaneh (Marjeyoun) killed one person and wounded four others.
Israeli airstrike destroys strategic Qasmieh bridge in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army bombed the strategic Qasmieh bridge in southern Lebanon, a key crossing point connecting major areas of the region. According to our correspondent, the strike targeted the bridge north of Sour, just three hours after the Israeli military issued threats regarding this location.
The bridge lies near a Lebanese Army checkpoint and a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) post. A tunnel beneath it had provided access to the nearby towns of Arzi and Zrarieh, making it an important route for local movement.
Its destruction has effectively cut off Sour and surrounding villages from the Zahrani area and from Sidon further north, significantly disrupting connectivity and daily life in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah continues targeting Israeli incursions in Khiam and Taybeh
- At 1:10 pm, Hezbollah targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Khiam (Marjayoun) with a rocket barrage.
- At 12:30 pm, in two simultaneous operations, the group launched rocket barrages targeting a gathering of Israeli soldiers in the Taybeh Project area (Marjayoun) for the third time, and the Marj site opposite Markaba (Marjayoun).
- At 10:30 am the party also targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Jall al-Hammar, south of Adaisseh (Marjayoun), with a rocket barrage.
Series of Israeli strikes on Nabatieh district, Israeli army says it has launched wave of strikes against Hezbollah
The Israeli army announced it had launched a large-scale wave of strikes targeting "Hezbollah infrastructure" in southern Lebanon, while the Israeli air force simultaneously carried out a series of strikes targeting Mayfadoun, Zawtar Sharqieh and Zawrar Gharbieh, as well as Kfar Tibnit, Nabatieh Fawqa, Zibdine and Choukine, in the Nabatieh district.
Deadly strike on Misgav Am, carried out after Hezbollah bypassed Israeli forces stationed at Robb Thalathine
The Hezbollah strike that killed one person this morning in Misgav Am, northern Israel, was carried out after a Hezbollah anti-tank unit managed to bypass an Israeli army deployment at Robb Thalathine in southern Lebanon, according to Israeli media.
This cell of the party-militia was able, according to Walla News journalist and military analyst Amir Bohbot, to bypass the Israeli army's forward defense line in southern Lebanon, despite the reinforcement of forces in the area.
For its part, Maariv reported that "this morning, taking advantage of the fog and winter conditions," Hezbollah was able to redeploy to Robb Thalathine, a village in the Marjayoun district directly opposite Misgav Am, "with several mortar and anti-tank missile units," in order to launch its attacks.
Robb Thalathine is one of the villages where the Israeli army has deployed since the beginning of its ground offensive in Lebanon.
Civil Defense urges journalists near Qasmieh Bridge to take precautions
The Director General of Lebanon's Civil Defense, Imad Khreiss, has asked the journalists' union to ensure that journalists in the area around the Qasmieh Bridge take maximum precautions ahead of an expected bombing of the bridge.
According to our correspondent, Khreiss contacted the head of the journalists' union, Joseph Qossaifi, and asked him to instruct journalists, media outlets and photographers in the vicinity of the threatened area to move as far away as possible.
The Israeli army has threatened to bomb the bridge to cut off Hezbollah's supplies and reinforcements in the South.
On Thursday, a Russia Today journalist and his cameraman were slightly injured in an Israeli airstrike while they were on a secondary bridge in Qasmieh.
Israel says killed commander of Hezbollah's al-Radwan special forces unit
Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated that the army carried out an airstrike on Saturday against Majdal Selm in southern Lebanon, killing a man identified as Abu Khalil Burji, described as "the commander of the al-Radwan special forces unit of Hezbollah," as well as two other fighters.
According to the Israeli army statement, Abu Khalil Burji had been a member of the al-Radwan unit in recent years and, at the time of his death, was leading the unit's special forces, "responsible for planning and executing operations targeting Israeli forces."
Update on south Lebanon: Israel kills at least 3 since this morning, Israeli advance attempt in Naqoura
The Israeli army continues its bombardment in southern Lebanon with artillery fire and machine-gun bursts targeting Burj al-Muluk (Marjayoun), as well as an airstrike against Qabrikha (Marjeaoun). Clashes have also been reported in Naqoura, where an Israeli advance attempt is underway under the cover of artillery fire.
In addition, Israeli airstrikes targeted the area around Zawtar Sharqieh (Nabatieh) and the Rihan heights (Jezzine). According to our correspondent, the strikes carried out at dawn killed three people: two in Sultanieh (Bint Jbeil) and one in Sowaneh (Marjayoun).
In site of Iranian strike on Arad, Netanyahu vows to 'personally target' every Iranian leader
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on world leaders to join the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, in a statement made from the site of an attack in the southern Israeli city of Arad.
He asserted that some countries were already moving in that direction, calling for broader international involvement.
Netanyahu also accused Iran of targeting civilians and maintained that Tehran has the capability to strike targets at long range, even in the heart of Europe.
Israel claims to have killed 9 Hezbollah fighters in south Lebanon
The Israeli army announced that its air force and forces from the 91st Division killed nine Hezbollah "terrorists" in southern Lebanon, which it called the "graveyard of Hezbollah fighters."
"The forces of the 91st Division are continuing their intensive ground operations to expand the 'advanced security zone' in southern Lebanon," said Avichay Adraee, the Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israeli army, on X.
According to his statement, Israeli forces spotted several Hezbollah members on Saturday who had approached the area where they operate.
They opened fire on them, while the air force conducted airstrikes against these elements, killing them, according to the same source.
New Hezbollah attack on Misgav Am, missile fired toward Metula
Hezbollah, for its part, announced that it targeted, for the second time of the day at 10:45 a.m., a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the Misgav Am site using a salvo of rockets, as well as another group of Israeli soldiers on the hill known as al-Oueida, located in Adaisseh.
In addition, a guided missile was fired from Lebanon toward Metula, opposite Khiam, according to a security source cited by our correspondent.
Hezbollah targets Misgav Am for the second time today, missile launched towards Metula
- At 10:45 am, and for the second time today, Hezbollah targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the Misgav Am site with a salvo of rockets.
- A guided missile was launched at Metula (opposite Khiam) from Lebanon, our correspondent reported citing a security source.
Clashes ongoing between Hezbollah and Israeli in Khiam, customs building in Jdeidet Marjayoun shelled
- Clashes, confrontations, and heavy shelling occurred in the eastern and northern neighborhoods of Khiam (Marjayoun) between Hezbollah soldiers and the Israeli army; the town had already been hit by several airstrikes earlier in the morning, including two Israeli airstrikes targeting the Jallahiya neighborhood near the Total fuel station, coinciding with artillery shelling.
- In the Marjayoun district, artillery shelling targeted the town of Jdeidet Marjayoun , and a customs building was struck by a shell, causing damage. Three Israeli artillery shells also targeted the town of Qlayaa, one of which hit a residential house. Artillery shelling also targeted the outskirts of the town of Marjayoun and the outskirts of Debbin.
- Artillery shelling also struck the town of Naqoura and an interceptor missile exploded in the skies over Tebnine (both located in Sour.)
- An Israeli airstrike targeted an area between Zawtar Gharbieh and Meifdoun (Nabatieh.)
Lebanese Army evacuates its position on Qasimieh bridge and corresponding post in Burj Rahal
The Lebanese Army evacuated its position at the Qasmieh bridge on the coastal road north of the city of Sour, following Israeli threats to target the bridges over the Litani River.
It also evacuated the corresponding post in the Burj Rahal (Sour) area on the highway.
Israel says it has eliminated a 'senior Hamas finance official in Lebanon'
The Israeli army stated that earlier this week, without providing an exact date, it eliminated Walid Mohammad Dib, “a senior official in Hamas’s financing system” responsible for “funding the organization’s military activities in Lebanon.”
According to the army’s Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee, Dib was “responsible for transferring funds to various Hamas branches” in the West Bank, Lebanon, and other countries, as well as overseeing agent recruitment and coordinating attacks from Syria and Lebanon.
The army did not specify where Mohammad Dib was eliminated.
Israel instructed to accelerate the demolition of Lebanese homes in 'frontline villages', Katz says
Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Sunday that he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had instructed the military to accelerate the demolition of Lebanese homes in "frontline villages" to end threats to Israeli communities.
The military was instructed to immediately destroy all bridges over Lebanon's Litani river which he said were used for "terrorist activity," Katz said in a statement released by his office.”
Katz also said he had instructed the army “to accelerate the destruction of homes in villages along the contact line” between the two countries “to counter threats against Israeli communities, following the model of Beit Hanoun and Rafah,” referring to the two Gaza Strip towns that were razed by the Israeli army.
Israeli army announces it will target Qasmieh Bridge in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army said it will soon target the Qasmieh Bridge on the coastal highway in southern Lebanon, north of Sour, according to its Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee in a post on X.
“Due to Hezbollah’s activities and the transfer of terrorist elements to southern Lebanon under the cover of civilians, the Israeli army is compelled to carry out extensive and precise strikes against Hezbollah’s terrorist operations,” Adraee said.
These strikes aim to “prevent the transfer of reinforcements and military equipment” by Hezbollah, he added, reiterating his call for residents to move north of the Zahrani River.
According to our correspondent in the south, the bridge is a key link connecting Sour to other parts of southern Lebanon.
The Lebanese Army also has a position near the bridge. Over the past week, the Israeli army has bombed several bridges over the Litani River, including the Kennayat Bridge near Qasmieh, which is a secondary bridge.
Israeli army to target Qasimiyah Bridge, spokesperson says
“Due to Hezbollah’s activities and the transfer of terrorist elements to southern Lebanon under the cover of civilians, the Israeli army is compelled to carry out extensive and precise strikes against Hezbollah’s terrorist operations,” the army’s Arabic spokesperson Avichay Adraee said in a post on X.
“In order to prevent the transfer of reinforcements and military equipment, the Israeli army intends to target the Qasmiyah Bridge — the coastal highway bridge,” Adraee added.
“For your safety, you must continue moving to areas north of the Zahrani River and refrain from any movement southward, as this may put your lives at risk,” he warned.
Family of 4 evacuated from Zawtar al-Sharqiyah, houses blown in Khiam Israel continues targeting southern Lebanese towns
- Israeli artillery shelling targeted Zawtar al-Sharqiyah (Nabatieh). Last night, an airstrike that targeted the town had resulted in one person being killed and another injured. A family of four was also evacuated from the town today, our correspondent in the south reported.
- An Israeli army force blew up several houses in the western outskirts of the southern neighborhood of Khiam (Marjayoun), and an Israeli warplane airstrike targeted a mountainous neighborhood in Khiam.
- Israeli artillery shelling targeted the town of Naqoura (Sour.)
Israeli army says 36th Division continues ground operations in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army said forces from its 36th Division are continuing “intensive ground operations” in southern Lebanon aimed at “destroying Hezbollah infrastructure.”
According to a post on X by the army’s Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee, the operations include searching “military buildings” belonging to Hezbollah, where weapons have been found. The Golani Brigade, part of the 36th Division, reportedly discovered “rockets, rifles and ammunition magazines” in a building in the south.
At the same time, forces from the 7th Brigade — one of the Israeli army’s three armored brigades — have “eliminated more than 10 Hezbollah members who posed an immediate threat” in southern Lebanon, according to Adraee.
1 killed in Misgav Am in northern Israel after rocket fire from Lebanon
One person was killed this morning in northern Israel by a rocket fired from Lebanon, according to Israeli emergency services. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a series of rocket attacks on northern Israel, after previously calling on residents to evacuate areas up to five kilometers from the border.
“Shortly ago, a launch from Lebanon toward a locality along the northern border was identified. Damage and casualties have been reported,” the Israeli army initially said.
According to fire services cited by the Israeli daily Haaretz, the attack took place in Misgav Am. “Two vehicles were completely set ablaze following a direct hit in the kibbutz of Misgav Am. Firefighters recovered one victim who was found dead at the scene,” the regional fire services said.
Local residents noted that warning sirens were not activated.
Hezbollah claims multiple attacks on northern Israeli positions overnight and this morning
In a new series of statements, Hezbollah said it carried out several attacks from overnight into the morning targeting northern Israeli locations, including Misgav Am.
The group said it fired rockets at 8:00 a.m. at the Israeli position of Rosh Hanikra, on the far western edge of the border area along the coast opposite Ras Naqoura, as well as at Israeli soldiers in Misgav Am to the east.
Hezbollah also claimed the following operations:
- At 2:10 a.m., a swarm of attack drones targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the Hanita position, opposite Alma al-Shaab (Sour district).
- At 2:40 a.m., three simultaneous operations were carried out:
- Strikes on Israeli military positions in Dishon, opposite Aitaroun (Bint Jbeil district)
- A rocket barrage targeting Khirbet al-Manara, opposite Houla (Marjayoun district), where Israeli troops were gathered
- A drone swarm attack on a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Avivim
- At 6:15 a.m., Hezbollah again targeted the Avivim barracks using a swarm of attack drones.
- At 6:30 a.m., the group targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the Ramot Naftali barracks, opposite Aitaroun, also using a swarm of attack drones.
Night strikes on southern Lebanon slowed by bad weather
The night from Saturday to Sunday was marked by a decrease in the intensity of Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon, as stormy and rainy weather slowed the pace of strikes and ground operations, according to our correspondent in the south.
Overnight strikes targeted homes in Naqoura (Sour district), the main road in Habboush (Nabatieh district), and an orchard near Bazourieh and Burj al-Shemali (Sour district).
Other raids hit Sultanieh (Bint Jbeil district) and Kfar Tebnit (Nabatieh district), accompanied by artillery shelling in the area, particularly around Yohmor al-Chaqif, as well as Zawtar al-Gharbieh and Zawtar al-Charqieh (Nabatieh district).
Southern Lebanon: 3 workers injured in a drone strike between Khiam and Kfar Kila this morning
At dawn, Israeli airstrikes targeted Sawaneh (Marjayoun district), Sultanieh (Bint Jbeil district), Qatrani and the heights of Rihan (Jezzine district).
A drone strike hit a vehicle at the Burj al-Moulouk junction, between Khiam and Kfar Kila, injuring three workers. Two similar strikes also targeted the town of Bint Jbeil, near Salah Ghandour Hospital, without causing casualties.
Another strike targeted the town of Habboush (Nabatieh district), but the missile did not explode.
Hezbollah repels Israeli advances overnight in the Marjayoun district, eastern sector
Overnight, Hezbollah claimed several attacks against Israeli soldiers and advances in southern Lebanon, mainly in Taybeh and Khiam, which have been at the center of fighting in recent days, as well as in Markaba and Adaisseh, all located in the eastern sector of the border in the Marjayoun district.
- At 7:00 p.m. Saturday, Hezbollah targeted Israeli soldiers and vehicles in Talat al-Khazzan, near Adaisseh, with a salvo of rockets.
- At 11:20 p.m., it targeted another gathering in Jabal Warda, in Markaba, also with rockets.
- In Taybeh, soldiers and vehicles were hit four times between 12:10 a.m. and 12:40 a.m. with rockets and artillery shells at Talat al-Mhaisebat, south of the village.
- Additional shelling targeted Israeli soldiers southwest of the town, in the area of Khirbet al-Kseif. At 5:00 a.m., Hezbollah again targeted soldiers and vehicles in the town using a precision missile.
- In Khiam, Hezbollah reported three attacks at 3:20 a.m. using rockets, targeting the town itself, the Hamames hill south of the town, and Wadi al-Assafir in the same area.
Explosions heard in Jerusalem, attacks targeting the UAE, drones intercepted by Saudi Arabia: regional situation
In recent hours, Iranian strikes have targeted several countries in the region:
Several explosions were heard in Jerusalem this morning after the Israeli army warned of incoming Iranian missiles toward central Israel.
The UAE Defense Ministry said its air defenses were responding to missile and drone threats from Iran, warning residents that the sounds heard were due to interceptions.
Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry reported that three ballistic missiles targeted the Riyadh region. One was intercepted, while the other two fell in uninhabited areas.
A British maritime agency also reported an explosion caused by an “unknown projectile” near a cargo ship off the coast of the UAE. All crew members are safe. The incident occurred about 15 nautical miles north of Sharjah, near the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian strikes on Dimona and Arad; Ghalibaf speaks of a 'new phase of the conflict'
On Saturday evening, Iran launched ballistic missiles at the southern Israeli cities of Dimona and Arad, causing significant damage and numerous injuries.
Following the strike, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the attack marked “the beginning of a new phase of the conflict,” adding that Israel’s failure to intercept the missile over Dimona showed its airspace was “defenseless.”
In Dimona, dozens were injured, but the nuclear research center was not hit. The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that no abnormal radiation levels were detected.
In Arad, another direct missile impact caused major damage and injuries.
These strikes came after an earlier air raid on Iran’s Natanz nuclear complex.
Welcome to our live coverage of the war in the Middle East
Welcome to our live coverage of the war in the Middle East, now in its 23rd day, with a focus on the escalation on the Lebanese front, which has killed more than 1,000 people and displaced over one million.
We will also report on developments across the region, where the war has “entered a new phase,” according to the Iranian Parliament Speaker, following strikes on the Natanz nuclear site and Iranian missile attacks on Dimona and Arad in southern Israel.
7 soldiers were lightly wounded in separate incidents in Lebanon, Israeli army confirms
Four Israeli soldiers were lightly wounded during operations in southern Lebanon, the army said.
In a separate incident, another soldier was lightly injured after a drone crashed in southern Lebanon, the Israeli army added, without providing further details, Haaretz reported.
It also said two soldiers were lightly injured in a "work accident" in northern Israel.
Update on Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon
- An Electricité du Liban (EDL) executive in the village of Habboush (Nabatieh district), Hussein Halal, was killed by an Israeli attack on the village, EDL said in a statement.
- Several Israeli strikes were reported this evening in southern Lebanon, notably in Shehabieh (Sour), Kafra (Bint Jbeil), more than once, in Debbine (Marjayoun), Ain Arab (Marjayoun), Qlayleh (Sour), Sheaitiyeh (Sour), and Tibnin (Bint Jbeil).
Hezbollah reports multiple attacks on Israeli forces in southern Lebanon
Hezbollah said Sunday evening that it targeted Israeli soldiers southeast of Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil) using drones, which it claimed, “achieved their objectives,” as Israeli troops attempted to advance into Lebanese territory.
Earlier, Hezbollah reported firing rockets at Israeli soldiers in Marwahine (Sour) and at troops and vehicles in Maroun al-Ras and Yaroun (Bint Jbeil).
Hezbollah also said it had targeted Israeli soldiers in Khiam around 7:50 p.m., a site of violent clashes for several days, and launched rocket fire toward Israeli troops in the village of Dhaira (Sour).
Israel claims Qasmieh bridge used by Hezbollah for weapons transfers
The Israeli army claimed strikes on the Qasmieh bridge, a key route linking Sour to Saida and the rest of Lebanon, targeted “a central passage used by members and commanders of Hezbollah to move from the north of the Litani River to the south,” according to Arabic-language spokeswoman Ella Waweya on X.
“Hezbollah used this crossing to transport thousands of weapons, as well as rockets and rocket launchers, used in operations against Israeli forces and citizens,” she added.
Noteworthy that the Qasmieh bridge had a Lebanese Army and UNIFIL troops post close to the site of the Israeli bombing.
Waweya also said that “about 15 sites affiliated with Hezbollah” were targeted in the Nabatieh area.
Israel should expect "several more weeks of fighting" against Hezbollah and Iran, Israeli army spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said Sunday on the 23rd day of the Middle East war.
"Every day that passes, we are weakening the [Iranian] terrorist regime. We will not allow the terror regime and its proxies to pose a threat to the citizens of Israel," he said in a televised address.
"Citizens of Israel, we are facing several more weeks of fighting against Iran and Hezbollah," the spokesman added.
"Ending this war today in Lebanon is our top priority and we are making all necessary diplomatic efforts to achieve this, hence our proposal for direct negotiations," Prime Minister Salam said.
Salam also criticized Hezbollah's argument that Israel was going to attack Lebanon, even though it had not fired six rockets at dawn on March 2. "Is it our role to go and provoke [Israel] or to avenge the death of Ali Khamenei? This is not the role of the Lebanese. This war is par excellence the war of others on our soil," he said.
"The displacement of the population is catastrophic; we have 644 reception centres throughout the country. Accusing the government of negligence towards the displaced is only intended to divert attention from Hezbollah's responsibility. We are not shirking our responsibilities and those who say so are seeking to run away from their own responsibilities in the outbreak of this war," Prime Minister Salam said.
Referring to the Israeli army's bombing of several bridges in southern Lebanon in recent days, including the strategic Qasmieh bridge today, Nawaf Salam said: "The destruction of the bridges is not a military operation but a criminal act and a catastrophe."
"We are working on the formation of a unified national delegation to negotiate with Israel," Prime Minister Salam said, adding that the objectives of any negotiations are "an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon and the return of Lebanese detained in Israeli jails."
Salam confident in army's unity, refuses to 'give in to Hezbollah's blackmail'
"I am not afraid for the unity of the Lebanese Army," Prime Minister Salam continued. "I am not calling for a confrontation with Hezbollah, on the contrary, I want to avoid such a confrontation."
"But I refuse to give in to Hezbollah's blackmail, and I ask it to respect the government's decisions," he added. "Our government won the confidence of Parliament twice, with the vote of Hezbollah," he recalled.
"No state can live if there are several decision-making centers and two armies," he said.
Salam says war has been imposed on Lebanon
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam told Saudi al‑Hadath channel on Sunday evening that “war has been imposed on us,” reflecting on the toll of the war for civilians.
He said, "The six rockets fired by Hezbollah [at dawn on March 2] cost 10,000 internally displaced persons."
Salam’s comments underline the growing concern in Beirut over the impact of the widening confrontation on ordinary Lebanese civilians with over 1.1 million forcibly displaced and over 1,000 people killed since the start of the war.
US State Department cautions Americans abroad
The U.S. State Department urged Americans abroad to "exercise increased vigilance" and follow security alerts issued by U.S. embassies and consulates, Haaretz reports.
It added, "Periodic airspace closures may cause trave disruptions," while "groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas or locations associated with the United States and/or Americans throughout the world."
This warning was issued as part of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). The last global warning was issued Feb. 28.
Hezbollah operations update
Hezbollah continued to announce its operations Sunday evening, including destroying an Israeli drone over Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon
Other reported operations include:
6:10 p.m. – Rockets fired toward northern Israel, hitting Meron's surveillance and air operations base and the Manara area
6:30 p.m. – Exploding drones targeted a barracks in Ramot Naftali (Upper Galilee, northern Israel)
6:45 p.m. – Rockets fired at al-Raheb site, near Aita al-Shaab (Bint Jbeil)
7:20 p.m. – Artillery fired at Israeli soldiers in Khiam (Marjeyoun)
7:30 p.m. – Rocket fire directed again toward northern Israel
Update on Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon
- Around 6:40 p.m. a fourth Israeli strike hit Sriri (Jezzine district); followed by an attack in Majdal Silm (Bint Jbeil) and the booby-trapping and destruction of a house in Mais al-Jabal (Marjayoun). Majdel Selm was targeted again at 7:40 p.m.
- After the Israeli army struck the Qasmieh bridge twice, the electricity network in Kharayeb (Saida) was damaged; EDL announced that repairs are planned for Monday
- The Israeli air force broke the sound barrier over several localities in southern Lebanon and the western Bekaa shortly after 7 p.m.
- Around 7:15 p.m., shelling reached the vicinity of Rashaya al-Foukhar (Hasbaya)
- At 7:50 p.m., Israeli planes targeted Jabbour hills (Jezzine)
Israel to 'intensify ground operations in Lebanon'
The Israeli army spokeswoman reported that IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said during the approval of plans for the next phase at the Northern Command headquarters yesterday that "the fighting against Hezbollah has only just begun."
"And with the end of the war in Iran, Hezbollah will find itself alone and isolated."
"The fight against Hezbollah will be long, and we are prepared for it."
The chief of staff held a meeting yesterday to approve plans to "intensify ground operations in Lebanon."
"We are now preparing to deepen maneuvers and strikes according to a structured plan. We will not stop until the threat is removed from our borders and the long-term security of the people of the northern region is ensured," he continued. Along with the strikes, the army is "strengthening the front line to protect the people of the northern region."
In addition, he said that he was focusing all efforts on Iran, but that "the northern front [near Lebanon's border] is another central theater, the two being linked."
He added that Hezbollah's decision to join the war "harms it and the entire Lebanese state."
Israel investigates whether civilian killed in Misgav Am was killed by friendly fire
The Israeli army said it is investigating whether its own soldiers were responsible for the death of a civilian in northern Israel, following conflicting reports about the incident.
Earlier Sunday, Israeli rescue services reported that a man was killed by the direct impact of a rocket fired at his car in Kibbutz Misgav Am, close to the border.
Hezbollah claimed its fighters had attacked Israeli soldiers in the area. The Israeli military later said it is conducting a thorough investigation and is examining “the possibility that the incident involved fire from Israeli soldiers.”
Heavy fighting continues in Khiam
Fighting in Khiam (Marjayoun district) showed no signs of easing on Sunday. A violent explosion was reported around 6:20 p.m., in a village that has been a hotspot of clashes between Hezbollah fighters and Israeli invading soldiers for several days.
Hezbollah said it had fired rockets at a group of Israeli soldiers in the village earlier, at 4:10 p.m.
A witness, speaking to our correspondent, said Israeli forces have taken control of the southern and eastern neighborhoods and are attempting to advance toward the northern neighborhood, aiming to seize a strategic hill called al-Jabali. The Israeli troops are regularly targeted by Hezbollah.
A photo of an Israeli flag reportedly planted in the village has circulated, but multiple sources say the image is not recent. Journalist Ali Shaib, from Hezbollah-affiliated al-Manar channel, noted the photo dates back to the 2024 war, during which Israeli forces briefly entered Khiam before the November 2024 cease-fire.
The witness told our correspondent it is difficult to verify current control of the village.
Hezbollah reports multiple attacks on Israelis
Hezbollah released several statements detailing attacks on Israeli troops in southern Lebanon and norther Israel. The party's militia announced:
- Rockets targeted a barracks in Avivim (Upper Galilee, northern Israel) for the second time; and a third time at 3:45.
- 3:30 p.m. - Targeted Israeli soldiers gathered in the newly established post in Jabal al-Bat in the border town of Aitaroun (Bint Jbeil)
- 3:40 p.m. - Missiles fired at Israeli troops in the forest of Aitaroun for the second time today.
- 3:45 p.m. - Artillery shells fired at Israeli soldiers north-east of the village of Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil).
- 3:50 p.m. - Rockets fired at Israeli soldiers and military vehicles gathered in Maroun al-Ras.
- 4 p.m. – Rockets fired at an Israeli soldiers gathered southwest of Alma al-Shaab (Sour).
- 4:10 p.m. – Rockets launched east of Khiam (Marjayoun) targeting Israeli troops and military vehicles.
- 4:35 p.m. – Slavo of rockets targeting Israeli troops east of Naqoura (Sour); and another slavo at Yarin (Sour), also targeting Israeli troops
Updates on Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon
- Around 5:20 p.m., the Israeli army booby-trapped and blew up a house in Robb Thalatine (Marjeyoun district).
- Shortly before 5:40 p.m., an Israeli airstrike hit Habboush (Nabatieh).
- Just before 6 p.m., the villages of Zawtar Sharqieh (Nabatieh) and the Sarira region (Jezzine) were targeted by the Israeli air force.
- At around 6:20 p.m., a violent explosion was heard in Khiam (Marjayoun), a hotspot of ongoing clashes between Hezbollah fighters and Israeli soldiers.
Israel strikes Qasmieh bridge, again — completely blocking it
Shortly before 6:30 p.m., An Israeli strike targeted the Qasmiye bridge over the Litani River, north of Sour. This is the second attack on the bridge today, a key route connecting Sour to Saida and the rest of Lebanon.
The road is now completely closed to all traffic, our regional correspondent reported.
US may need to 'escalate to de-escalate' against Iran, Treasury chief says
The United States may need to increase its military pressure on Iran to eventually wind down the war, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Sunday.
The statement comes after President Donald Trump gave seemingly contradictory statements about the U.S. campaign, saying his country was "very close" to achieving its objectives.
Asked on NBC’s "Meet the Press" whether the U.S. was winding down or escalating the war, Bessent said: “They’re not mutually exclusive. Sometimes you have to escalate to de-escalate. This is the only language the Iranians understand.”
Iran’s threats to shipping through the strait, which carries about 20 percent of global gas and oil supplies, have caused energy prices to spike worldwide. As part of efforts to ease market pressures, Bessent temporarily lifted U.S. sanctions on Iranian and Russian oil already loaded onto ships, a move critics say could fund Iran amid the ongoing war.
Bessent defended the decision, saying it helps U.S. partners and lowers the price Iran receives: “That Iranian oil was always going to be sold to the Chinese … Which is better? If oil prices spiked to $150 and they were getting 70 percent of that, or oil below 100?”
He did not give a timeline for when U.S. gas prices might stabilize, but argued the temporary costs are worth it: “But to have 50 years of peace in the Middle East and know that the Iranian regime is defanged, will be worth it.”
Aoun condemns Qasmieh bridge attack, warns of potential Israeli 'ground invasion'
President Joseph Aoun on Sunday condemned Israel’s targeting and destruction of vital state infrastructure in southern Lebanon, including the Qasmieh bridge in Sour's district over the Litani River, calling it a “dangerous escalation and a flagrant violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty” and warning of an imminent “ground invasion.”
Rai praises residents of south Lebanon villages
Maronite Patriarch Bechara Rai paid tribute on Sunday to residents of Christian villages in southern Lebanon who have remained despite ongoing Israeli bombardment, calling them "the true guardians of the nation."
From Bkirki, Rai expressed his “solidarity with those who stand firm in their villages, refusing war and calling for peace.”
A delegation from the southern village of Qaouzah attended the mass.
US, Israeli strikes caused 'heavy damage' to Iran's water, energy infrastructure
Iran's critical water and energy infrastructure have suffered extensive damage due to U.S. and Israeli strikes on tens of thousands of civilian sites, officials said on Sunday.
"The country's vital water and electricity infrastructure has suffered heavy damage following terrorist and cyber-attacks by the United States and the Zionist regime," said energy minister Abbas Aliabadi, according to ISNA news agency.
"The attacks targeted dozens of water transmission and treatment facilities and destroyed parts of critical water supply networks," he noted, adding that efforts were under way to repair the damage.
Iran's Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Kolivand said the total number of damaged civilian sites "has reached 81,365 based on the latest field assessments".
Update on Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon
- Shortly before 4 p.m., Israeli airstrikes targeted the villages of Bayada (Sour district), al-Katarani (Jezzine), and later Haniyeh and Naqoura (Sour).
- At around 4:20 p.m., an Israeli aristrike targeted Arab Salim (Nabatieh), followed by another strike on Naqoura, near a UNIFIL post and a Lebanese Army position.
Israeli army carries out wave of strikes on military sites in Tehran
The Israeli army announced that it conducted a series of airstrikes targeting military production sites and headquarters in Tehran.
The army spokesperson stated that Israeli forces are “continuing to intensify strikes against all systems and capabilities of the Iranian regime.”
Over the past 24 hours, the army said it targeted “infrastructure belonging to the Iranian regime in the Tehran area” based on intelligence reports.
“As part of these strikes, fighter jets dropped dozens of bombs on sites used by Iranian security services to produce and store military equipment,” she added.
The spokesperson specified that the strikes hit an “Iranian army base used for soldier training and missile system storage intended to target aircraft,” as well as a “production and storage site under the Iranian Defense Ministry, a site producing military equipment for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Air Force, and another Ministry of Intelligence headquarters along with an emergency center for internal security forces.”
“These strikes are part of an intensified phase of operations targeting the core systems and pillars of the Iranian regime,” the spokesperson said.
Iran threatens to close strategic Hormuz Strait amid escalating tensions with Washington
Iran will fully shut down the strategic Strait of Hormuz if Donald Trump carries out his threats to target Iranian energy facilities, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said in a statement released Sunday.
On Saturday, Donald Trump warned he would “wipe out” Iran’s power plants if Tehran did not completely reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, signaling a sharp escalation just one day after suggesting a possible “slowdown” in the conflict, now entering its fourth week.
In their Sunday statement, the Revolutionary Guards also warned that companies with American stakes would be “completely destroyed” if Iranian energy infrastructure were targeted by Washington. They added that energy facilities located in countries hosting U.S. military bases would be considered “legitimate” targets.
2 strikes in Sultanieh and Sawaneh kill 4 and injure 7
Th health ministry announced that three people were killed and three others injured in an Israeli strike targeting Sultanieh (Bint Jbeil).
Another Israeli strike on Sawaneh (Marjeyoun) killed one person and wounded four others.
Israeli airstrike destroys strategic Qasmieh bridge in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army bombed the strategic Qasmieh bridge in southern Lebanon, a key crossing point connecting major areas of the region. According to our correspondent, the strike targeted the bridge north of Sour, just three hours after the Israeli military issued threats regarding this location.
The bridge lies near a Lebanese Army checkpoint and a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) post. A tunnel beneath it had provided access to the nearby towns of Arzi and Zrarieh, making it an important route for local movement.
Its destruction has effectively cut off Sour and surrounding villages from the Zahrani area and from Sidon further north, significantly disrupting connectivity and daily life in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah continues targeting Israeli incursions in Khiam and Taybeh
- At 1:10 pm, Hezbollah targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Khiam (Marjayoun) with a rocket barrage.
- At 12:30 pm, in two simultaneous operations, the group launched rocket barrages targeting a gathering of Israeli soldiers in the Taybeh Project area (Marjayoun) for the third time, and the Marj site opposite Markaba (Marjayoun).
- At 10:30 am the party also targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Jall al-Hammar, south of Adaisseh (Marjayoun), with a rocket barrage.
Series of Israeli strikes on Nabatieh district, Israeli army says it has launched wave of strikes against Hezbollah
The Israeli army announced it had launched a large-scale wave of strikes targeting "Hezbollah infrastructure" in southern Lebanon, while the Israeli air force simultaneously carried out a series of strikes targeting Mayfadoun, Zawtar Sharqieh and Zawrar Gharbieh, as well as Kfar Tibnit, Nabatieh Fawqa, Zibdine and Choukine, in the Nabatieh district.
Deadly strike on Misgav Am, carried out after Hezbollah bypassed Israeli forces stationed at Robb Thalathine
The Hezbollah strike that killed one person this morning in Misgav Am, northern Israel, was carried out after a Hezbollah anti-tank unit managed to bypass an Israeli army deployment at Robb Thalathine in southern Lebanon, according to Israeli media.
This cell of the party-militia was able, according to Walla News journalist and military analyst Amir Bohbot, to bypass the Israeli army's forward defense line in southern Lebanon, despite the reinforcement of forces in the area.
For its part, Maariv reported that "this morning, taking advantage of the fog and winter conditions," Hezbollah was able to redeploy to Robb Thalathine, a village in the Marjayoun district directly opposite Misgav Am, "with several mortar and anti-tank missile units," in order to launch its attacks.
Robb Thalathine is one of the villages where the Israeli army has deployed since the beginning of its ground offensive in Lebanon.
Civil Defense urges journalists near Qasmieh Bridge to take precautions
The Director General of Lebanon's Civil Defense, Imad Khreiss, has asked the journalists' union to ensure that journalists in the area around the Qasmieh Bridge take maximum precautions ahead of an expected bombing of the bridge.
According to our correspondent, Khreiss contacted the head of the journalists' union, Joseph Qossaifi, and asked him to instruct journalists, media outlets and photographers in the vicinity of the threatened area to move as far away as possible.
The Israeli army has threatened to bomb the bridge to cut off Hezbollah's supplies and reinforcements in the South.
On Thursday, a Russia Today journalist and his cameraman were slightly injured in an Israeli airstrike while they were on a secondary bridge in Qasmieh.
Israel says killed commander of Hezbollah's al-Radwan special forces unit
Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated that the army carried out an airstrike on Saturday against Majdal Selm in southern Lebanon, killing a man identified as Abu Khalil Burji, described as "the commander of the al-Radwan special forces unit of Hezbollah," as well as two other fighters.
According to the Israeli army statement, Abu Khalil Burji had been a member of the al-Radwan unit in recent years and, at the time of his death, was leading the unit's special forces, "responsible for planning and executing operations targeting Israeli forces."
Update on south Lebanon: Israel kills at least 3 since this morning, Israeli advance attempt in Naqoura
The Israeli army continues its bombardment in southern Lebanon with artillery fire and machine-gun bursts targeting Burj al-Muluk (Marjayoun), as well as an airstrike against Qabrikha (Marjeaoun). Clashes have also been reported in Naqoura, where an Israeli advance attempt is underway under the cover of artillery fire.
In addition, Israeli airstrikes targeted the area around Zawtar Sharqieh (Nabatieh) and the Rihan heights (Jezzine). According to our correspondent, the strikes carried out at dawn killed three people: two in Sultanieh (Bint Jbeil) and one in Sowaneh (Marjayoun).
In site of Iranian strike on Arad, Netanyahu vows to 'personally target' every Iranian leader
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on world leaders to join the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, in a statement made from the site of an attack in the southern Israeli city of Arad.
He asserted that some countries were already moving in that direction, calling for broader international involvement.
Netanyahu also accused Iran of targeting civilians and maintained that Tehran has the capability to strike targets at long range, even in the heart of Europe.
Israel claims to have killed 9 Hezbollah fighters in south Lebanon
The Israeli army announced that its air force and forces from the 91st Division killed nine Hezbollah "terrorists" in southern Lebanon, which it called the "graveyard of Hezbollah fighters."
"The forces of the 91st Division are continuing their intensive ground operations to expand the 'advanced security zone' in southern Lebanon," said Avichay Adraee, the Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israeli army, on X.
According to his statement, Israeli forces spotted several Hezbollah members on Saturday who had approached the area where they operate.
They opened fire on them, while the air force conducted airstrikes against these elements, killing them, according to the same source.
New Hezbollah attack on Misgav Am, missile fired toward Metula
Hezbollah, for its part, announced that it targeted, for the second time of the day at 10:45 a.m., a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the Misgav Am site using a salvo of rockets, as well as another group of Israeli soldiers on the hill known as al-Oueida, located in Adaisseh.
In addition, a guided missile was fired from Lebanon toward Metula, opposite Khiam, according to a security source cited by our correspondent.
Hezbollah targets Misgav Am for the second time today, missile launched towards Metula
- At 10:45 am, and for the second time today, Hezbollah targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the Misgav Am site with a salvo of rockets.
- A guided missile was launched at Metula (opposite Khiam) from Lebanon, our correspondent reported citing a security source.
Clashes ongoing between Hezbollah and Israeli in Khiam, customs building in Jdeidet Marjayoun shelled
- Clashes, confrontations, and heavy shelling occurred in the eastern and northern neighborhoods of Khiam (Marjayoun) between Hezbollah soldiers and the Israeli army; the town had already been hit by several airstrikes earlier in the morning, including two Israeli airstrikes targeting the Jallahiya neighborhood near the Total fuel station, coinciding with artillery shelling.
- In the Marjayoun district, artillery shelling targeted the town of Jdeidet Marjayoun , and a customs building was struck by a shell, causing damage. Three Israeli artillery shells also targeted the town of Qlayaa, one of which hit a residential house. Artillery shelling also targeted the outskirts of the town of Marjayoun and the outskirts of Debbin.
- Artillery shelling also struck the town of Naqoura and an interceptor missile exploded in the skies over Tebnine (both located in Sour.)
- An Israeli airstrike targeted an area between Zawtar Gharbieh and Meifdoun (Nabatieh.)
Lebanese Army evacuates its position on Qasimieh bridge and corresponding post in Burj Rahal
The Lebanese Army evacuated its position at the Qasmieh bridge on the coastal road north of the city of Sour, following Israeli threats to target the bridges over the Litani River.
It also evacuated the corresponding post in the Burj Rahal (Sour) area on the highway.
Israel says it has eliminated a 'senior Hamas finance official in Lebanon'
The Israeli army stated that earlier this week, without providing an exact date, it eliminated Walid Mohammad Dib, “a senior official in Hamas’s financing system” responsible for “funding the organization’s military activities in Lebanon.”
According to the army’s Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee, Dib was “responsible for transferring funds to various Hamas branches” in the West Bank, Lebanon, and other countries, as well as overseeing agent recruitment and coordinating attacks from Syria and Lebanon.
The army did not specify where Mohammad Dib was eliminated.
Israel instructed to accelerate the demolition of Lebanese homes in 'frontline villages', Katz says
Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Sunday that he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had instructed the military to accelerate the demolition of Lebanese homes in "frontline villages" to end threats to Israeli communities.
The military was instructed to immediately destroy all bridges over Lebanon's Litani river which he said were used for "terrorist activity," Katz said in a statement released by his office.”
Katz also said he had instructed the army “to accelerate the destruction of homes in villages along the contact line” between the two countries “to counter threats against Israeli communities, following the model of Beit Hanoun and Rafah,” referring to the two Gaza Strip towns that were razed by the Israeli army.
Israeli army announces it will target Qasmieh Bridge in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army said it will soon target the Qasmieh Bridge on the coastal highway in southern Lebanon, north of Sour, according to its Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee in a post on X.
“Due to Hezbollah’s activities and the transfer of terrorist elements to southern Lebanon under the cover of civilians, the Israeli army is compelled to carry out extensive and precise strikes against Hezbollah’s terrorist operations,” Adraee said.
These strikes aim to “prevent the transfer of reinforcements and military equipment” by Hezbollah, he added, reiterating his call for residents to move north of the Zahrani River.
According to our correspondent in the south, the bridge is a key link connecting Sour to other parts of southern Lebanon.
The Lebanese Army also has a position near the bridge. Over the past week, the Israeli army has bombed several bridges over the Litani River, including the Kennayat Bridge near Qasmieh, which is a secondary bridge.
Israeli army to target Qasimiyah Bridge, spokesperson says
“Due to Hezbollah’s activities and the transfer of terrorist elements to southern Lebanon under the cover of civilians, the Israeli army is compelled to carry out extensive and precise strikes against Hezbollah’s terrorist operations,” the army’s Arabic spokesperson Avichay Adraee said in a post on X.
“In order to prevent the transfer of reinforcements and military equipment, the Israeli army intends to target the Qasmiyah Bridge — the coastal highway bridge,” Adraee added.
“For your safety, you must continue moving to areas north of the Zahrani River and refrain from any movement southward, as this may put your lives at risk,” he warned.
Family of 4 evacuated from Zawtar al-Sharqiyah, houses blown in Khiam Israel continues targeting southern Lebanese towns
- Israeli artillery shelling targeted Zawtar al-Sharqiyah (Nabatieh). Last night, an airstrike that targeted the town had resulted in one person being killed and another injured. A family of four was also evacuated from the town today, our correspondent in the south reported.
- An Israeli army force blew up several houses in the western outskirts of the southern neighborhood of Khiam (Marjayoun), and an Israeli warplane airstrike targeted a mountainous neighborhood in Khiam.
- Israeli artillery shelling targeted the town of Naqoura (Sour.)
Israeli army says 36th Division continues ground operations in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army said forces from its 36th Division are continuing “intensive ground operations” in southern Lebanon aimed at “destroying Hezbollah infrastructure.”
According to a post on X by the army’s Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee, the operations include searching “military buildings” belonging to Hezbollah, where weapons have been found. The Golani Brigade, part of the 36th Division, reportedly discovered “rockets, rifles and ammunition magazines” in a building in the south.
At the same time, forces from the 7th Brigade — one of the Israeli army’s three armored brigades — have “eliminated more than 10 Hezbollah members who posed an immediate threat” in southern Lebanon, according to Adraee.
1 killed in Misgav Am in northern Israel after rocket fire from Lebanon
One person was killed this morning in northern Israel by a rocket fired from Lebanon, according to Israeli emergency services. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a series of rocket attacks on northern Israel, after previously calling on residents to evacuate areas up to five kilometers from the border.
“Shortly ago, a launch from Lebanon toward a locality along the northern border was identified. Damage and casualties have been reported,” the Israeli army initially said.
According to fire services cited by the Israeli daily Haaretz, the attack took place in Misgav Am. “Two vehicles were completely set ablaze following a direct hit in the kibbutz of Misgav Am. Firefighters recovered one victim who was found dead at the scene,” the regional fire services said.
Local residents noted that warning sirens were not activated.
Hezbollah claims multiple attacks on northern Israeli positions overnight and this morning
In a new series of statements, Hezbollah said it carried out several attacks from overnight into the morning targeting northern Israeli locations, including Misgav Am.
The group said it fired rockets at 8:00 a.m. at the Israeli position of Rosh Hanikra, on the far western edge of the border area along the coast opposite Ras Naqoura, as well as at Israeli soldiers in Misgav Am to the east.
Hezbollah also claimed the following operations:
- At 2:10 a.m., a swarm of attack drones targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the Hanita position, opposite Alma al-Shaab (Sour district).
- At 2:40 a.m., three simultaneous operations were carried out:
- Strikes on Israeli military positions in Dishon, opposite Aitaroun (Bint Jbeil district)
- A rocket barrage targeting Khirbet al-Manara, opposite Houla (Marjayoun district), where Israeli troops were gathered
- A drone swarm attack on a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Avivim
- At 6:15 a.m., Hezbollah again targeted the Avivim barracks using a swarm of attack drones.
- At 6:30 a.m., the group targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers at the Ramot Naftali barracks, opposite Aitaroun, also using a swarm of attack drones.
Night strikes on southern Lebanon slowed by bad weather
The night from Saturday to Sunday was marked by a decrease in the intensity of Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon, as stormy and rainy weather slowed the pace of strikes and ground operations, according to our correspondent in the south.
Overnight strikes targeted homes in Naqoura (Sour district), the main road in Habboush (Nabatieh district), and an orchard near Bazourieh and Burj al-Shemali (Sour district).
Other raids hit Sultanieh (Bint Jbeil district) and Kfar Tebnit (Nabatieh district), accompanied by artillery shelling in the area, particularly around Yohmor al-Chaqif, as well as Zawtar al-Gharbieh and Zawtar al-Charqieh (Nabatieh district).
Southern Lebanon: 3 workers injured in a drone strike between Khiam and Kfar Kila this morning
At dawn, Israeli airstrikes targeted Sawaneh (Marjayoun district), Sultanieh (Bint Jbeil district), Qatrani and the heights of Rihan (Jezzine district).
A drone strike hit a vehicle at the Burj al-Moulouk junction, between Khiam and Kfar Kila, injuring three workers. Two similar strikes also targeted the town of Bint Jbeil, near Salah Ghandour Hospital, without causing casualties.
Another strike targeted the town of Habboush (Nabatieh district), but the missile did not explode.
Hezbollah repels Israeli advances overnight in the Marjayoun district, eastern sector
Overnight, Hezbollah claimed several attacks against Israeli soldiers and advances in southern Lebanon, mainly in Taybeh and Khiam, which have been at the center of fighting in recent days, as well as in Markaba and Adaisseh, all located in the eastern sector of the border in the Marjayoun district.
- At 7:00 p.m. Saturday, Hezbollah targeted Israeli soldiers and vehicles in Talat al-Khazzan, near Adaisseh, with a salvo of rockets.
- At 11:20 p.m., it targeted another gathering in Jabal Warda, in Markaba, also with rockets.
- In Taybeh, soldiers and vehicles were hit four times between 12:10 a.m. and 12:40 a.m. with rockets and artillery shells at Talat al-Mhaisebat, south of the village.
- Additional shelling targeted Israeli soldiers southwest of the town, in the area of Khirbet al-Kseif. At 5:00 a.m., Hezbollah again targeted soldiers and vehicles in the town using a precision missile.
- In Khiam, Hezbollah reported three attacks at 3:20 a.m. using rockets, targeting the town itself, the Hamames hill south of the town, and Wadi al-Assafir in the same area.
Explosions heard in Jerusalem, attacks targeting the UAE, drones intercepted by Saudi Arabia: regional situation
In recent hours, Iranian strikes have targeted several countries in the region:
Several explosions were heard in Jerusalem this morning after the Israeli army warned of incoming Iranian missiles toward central Israel.
The UAE Defense Ministry said its air defenses were responding to missile and drone threats from Iran, warning residents that the sounds heard were due to interceptions.
Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry reported that three ballistic missiles targeted the Riyadh region. One was intercepted, while the other two fell in uninhabited areas.
A British maritime agency also reported an explosion caused by an “unknown projectile” near a cargo ship off the coast of the UAE. All crew members are safe. The incident occurred about 15 nautical miles north of Sharjah, near the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian strikes on Dimona and Arad; Ghalibaf speaks of a 'new phase of the conflict'
On Saturday evening, Iran launched ballistic missiles at the southern Israeli cities of Dimona and Arad, causing significant damage and numerous injuries.
Following the strike, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the attack marked “the beginning of a new phase of the conflict,” adding that Israel’s failure to intercept the missile over Dimona showed its airspace was “defenseless.”
In Dimona, dozens were injured, but the nuclear research center was not hit. The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that no abnormal radiation levels were detected.
In Arad, another direct missile impact caused major damage and injuries.
These strikes came after an earlier air raid on Iran’s Natanz nuclear complex.
Welcome to our live coverage of the war in the Middle East
Welcome to our live coverage of the war in the Middle East, now in its 23rd day, with a focus on the escalation on the Lebanese front, which has killed more than 1,000 people and displaced over one million.
We will also report on developments across the region, where the war has “entered a new phase,” according to the Iranian Parliament Speaker, following strikes on the Natanz nuclear site and Iranian missile attacks on Dimona and Arad in southern Israel.
Already have an account? Login here
You have reached your article limit
Iran-US-Lebanon: Everything can change in an instant.
Stay informed for only $6.9/month for 1 year, instead of $12.9.
This article is only available to L’Orient Today subscribers.
Already have an account? Login here