The Israeli military has announced a major expansion of its ground operations in southern Lebanon, signalling what officials describe as a prolonged campaign, as Lebanese authorities condemned the escalation as a serious violation of national sovereignty.
On Sunday, Israeli forces struck a key bridge along Lebanon’s coastal highway, a vital route connecting the country’s south with central regions. The strike came after Israeli leadership ordered the destruction of all crossings over the Litani River and intensified demolitions of homes near the border.
The targeting of critical infrastructure marks a significant escalation in the conflict. International law generally prohibits attacks on civilian infrastructure, and the United Nations human rights chief has criticised Israel’s actions, particularly widespread evacuation orders that have displaced more than one million people.
The bridge, located near the southern city of Tyre, sustained heavy damage, rendering it unusable. According to Lebanon’s National News Agency, multiple strikes also damaged nearby electricity networks, shops, orchards and public spaces.
Residents in the area fled after advance warnings of the strike. Lama al-Fares, who lives near the crossing, said her family evacuated with limited belongings and watched from a nearby hilltop.
“Our home is next to the bridge. It was destroyed in the last war, and we had only rebuilt a basic structure. I hope it is still standing,” she said.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the strikes, calling them a “prelude to a ground invasion” and accusing Israel of pursuing a policy of collective punishment. He warned the destruction of bridges could disrupt humanitarian aid and may signal broader territorial ambitions.
Israel, however, maintains that its operations target Hezbollah infrastructure. Military chief Eyal Zamir said the campaign “has only begun” and described it as a long-term operation. He added that forces are preparing for expanded ground manoeuvres under a structured plan.
Military spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin confirmed that the next phase of ground operations is expected to begin within days.
Lebanese authorities also reported that Israeli forces carried out controlled demolitions of homes in border towns, including Taybeh, further intensifying concerns over civilian impact.
Meanwhile, Israel reported that a civilian was killed by rocket fire from Lebanon, though officials later said they were investigating whether the incident may have involved Israeli fire.
Lebanon’s health ministry said at least four people were killed in southern strikes on Sunday alone. Overall, more than 1,000 people have been killed and over one million displaced since the conflict escalated three weeks ago.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had ordered the immediate destruction of all bridges over the Litani River, alleging they were being used by Hezbollah for military purposes.
The widening offensive and destruction of infrastructure have raised fears of a deeper and more prolonged conflict, with growing humanitarian and regional implications.
