The Israel Defense Forces is preparing to present a comprehensive plan to Israel’s political leadership to establish a “security zone” inside southern Lebanon, aimed at reducing threats posed by Hezbollah.
According to military officials, the proposed buffer zone would extend several kilometers into Lebanese territory and involve the demolition of villages near the border, alongside the construction of permanent Israeli military positions.
The plan, which is being coordinated with legal authorities, is expected to be submitted soon for government approval.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has stated that all buildings in the frontline border villages will be razed. He also emphasized that civilians will not be allowed to return to areas south of the Litani River until the Hezbollah threat is fully addressed.
The military strategy includes:
• Clearing villages within a few kilometers of the border
• Removing Hezbollah infrastructure and weapons caches
• Establishing forward-operating Israeli army posts
• Maintaining exceptions for select Christian communities
The IDF noted that many of these areas were already cleared during the 2024 ground offensive. However, troops continue to uncover weapons and infrastructure, some dating back years and others reportedly established during the 2024–2026 ceasefire period.
Israeli officials acknowledge that fully disarming Hezbollah in the short term is not realistic, but say the objective is to significantly weaken the group and push its operational capabilities further north.
As a result, the military does not expect a complete halt to rocket fire, since most long-range launches originate north of the Litani River. However, short-range attacks have increasingly shifted toward Israeli forces operating inside southern Lebanon rather than civilian areas.
Military sources also indicated that Hezbollah is “deeply troubled” by Israel’s intention to continue operations in Lebanon even after the conclusion of the Iran war, signaling a potential escalation on the northern front.
While the conflict with Iran remains Israel’s primary focus, officials confirmed that Lebanon could become the central theater of operations if a ceasefire is reached.
In a follow-up clarification, the IDF reiterated that while immediate disarmament may not be achievable, it remains committed to a long-term strategy to dismantle Hezbollah’s military capabilities through sustained operations over time.
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