Israeli military forces have ordered residents across southern Lebanon to evacuate as the military expands operations against Hezbollah [1].
This escalation marks a significant shift in the conflict, as Israel seeks to create a permanent buffer to prevent cross-border attacks. The movement of civilians and the destruction of infrastructure have left remaining residents dependent on humanitarian convoys for survival.
On May 27, 2026, the Israeli military issued the evacuation orders for residents in the south [1]. The military said it will "work with extreme …" in its operations across the region [1]. These maneuvers are part of a broader strategy to limit the ability of Hezbollah to launch attacks from Lebanese soil.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military will establish a security zone that extends up to the Litani River [3]. This objective involves seizing parts of southern Lebanon to ensure a strategic depth for Israeli security [3].
Hezbollah has rejected these incursions. On June 26, 2026, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said that Israel must leave Lebanon unconditionally [2].
The current situation stands in contrast to the year 2000, when Israel previously withdrew from parts of southern Lebanon [5]. Current operations have led to widespread destruction, leaving many areas devastated and isolated. In several zones, humanitarian convoys have become the only means for civilians to obtain essential supplies [4].
Israeli officials said the expansion is necessary to protect their citizens from Hezbollah's capabilities. However, the resulting displacement and the occupation of territory up to the Litani River have intensified the humanitarian crisis in the region [3, 4].
“Israel must leave Lebanon unconditionally.”
The attempt to establish a security zone reaching the Litani River represents a return to a strategy of territorial occupation in southern Lebanon. By displacing civilians and creating a buffer, Israel aims to dismantle Hezbollah's launch infrastructure, but this approach risks long-term regional instability and a deepening humanitarian dependency on external aid.
