US Media: Israeli Defense Minister Says Plan to Expand Control Area in Southern Lebanon Could Pave Way for Long-term Presence

BlockBeats News, March 25th, according to The New York Times, on Tuesday, the Israeli Defense Minister stated that the country's military plans to expand its control area in southern Lebanon, indicating that Israel is escalating its ground offensive against Hezbollah.

Israeli Defense Minister Katz said in a statement that Israel will retain control of the area south of the Litani River. The river is only a few miles from the Israeli-Lebanese border at its narrowest point and 15 to 20 miles at its widest. This river has long been a geographical dividing line in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict. It is currently unclear whether Israel will deploy troops throughout the region or rely on the air force to maintain dominance in certain areas.

The statement also suggests that as President Trump tries to negotiate with Iran to end the regional war, Israel is laying the groundwork for long-term presence in a large part of Lebanon.