Israeli Forces Cross ‘Yellow Line’ in Southern Lebanon
Military sources confirm troops have advanced beyond a key self-declared boundary, operating up to 10 kilometers inside Lebanese territory.
The operation extends roughly 10 kilometers (6 miles) deep into Lebanese territory, marking a significant shift in Israel's military posture along the northern border.
Expanded Operations
Israeli forces have begun operating beyond the "Yellow Line" in southern Lebanon, according to military sources confirmed to AFP and Reuters. This move follows a period during which Israeli troops had previously only operated within that boundary, carrying out large-scale demolitions.
The "Yellow Line" is a self-declared boundary distinct from the UN-demarcated "Blue Line," which marks the official border between Lebanon and Israel since Israel's withdrawal in 2000. The new area of operation runs approximately 10 kilometers deep into Lebanese territory.
Despite an April 17 ceasefire, Israel and Hezbollah continue to exchange fire nearly daily.
Official Statement
The Israeli military stated:
"The IDF is operating in a targeted manner beyond the Forward Defence Line in order to remove direct threats to the citizens of the State of Israel and IDF troops, in accordance with the directives of the political echelon."
An official added that specific details about troop locations cannot be provided.
Escalating Context
The move follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement on Monday that the army would intensify strikes against the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. This operational shift deep inside Lebanese territory signals a potential escalation in the long-running conflict between the two sides.