The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) 98th Division is reportedly close to achieving operational control over Bint Jbail in southern Lebanon, a town identified as a Hezbollah stronghold. This development occurs alongside ongoing military activities, including Hezbollah rocket launches towards Israel, Israeli strikes in Lebanon resulting in reported fatalities, and recent operations by the 98th Division in Gaza. Other IDF divisions are also active in southern Lebanon.
Current Operations in Southern Lebanon
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) 98th Division is reportedly nearing operational control of Bint Jbail, a town in southern Lebanon. According to IDF estimates, several dozen Hezbollah operatives, including members of the Radwan Force, are present in the town.
Bint Jbail has been regarded as a Hezbollah stronghold for several years, with the group's influence reportedly increasing over the past 18 months.
Recent Engagements and Casualties
On Thursday, Hezbollah launched approximately 50 rockets towards Israel. Approximately 40 of these projectiles entered Israeli territory and were subsequently intercepted. Lebanese reports, cited by Reuters, state that 300 individuals were killed in Israeli strikes on Thursday.
Broader Divisional Activities
In recent days, the 98th Division has also been conducting operations in Gaza, specifically east of the Yellow Line. These operations resulted in the deaths of 20 individuals who violated a ceasefire agreement. Among those killed was a commander identified as having been involved in the October 7 invasion of Israeli territory.
Defensive Preparations and Other Forces
Earlier in the week, the 98th Division completed its deployment along a defensive line designed to counter Hezbollah's anti-tank missiles. This action is part of efforts to strengthen the IDF's forward defensive posture in southern Lebanon, aiming to address threats from Hezbollah towards northern Israel. The IDF's 91st, 36th, and 146th Divisions are also engaged in operations against Hezbollah operatives in southern Lebanon.