Israel expands Lebanon offensive; Beirut condemns ceasefire violation

Beirut: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has sharply condemned Israel's escalating ground offensive in southern Lebanon, accusing it of pursuing a scorched-earth strategy through the destruction of towns and villages and the displacement of civilians.

Salam argued that Israel's military campaign amounted to collective punishment and warned that such actions would not bring security or stability to Israel. His remarks came as Israeli forces intensified operations across southern Lebanon.

The Israeli military said on Sunday that it had expanded its ground advance in the region. It also announced that a 21-year-old soldier was killed during fighting in southern Lebanon on Saturday.

Alongside the ground offensive, Israel launched fresh airstrikes and issued evacuation warnings for more than a dozen locations. Military spokesperson Ella Waweya said a large-scale assault was underway and was being expanded to additional areas. As part of the operation, Israel has deployed substantial ground forces, including infantry and armoured units.

The Israel Defense Forces said extensive attacks had begun in the Beaufort Ridge and Wadi Saluki areas of southern Lebanon. Israeli troops have also crossed the Litani River and intensified strikes against Hezbollah positions north of the river. Waweya said Israeli forces were operating around Nabatieh and remained prepared to broaden the offensive whenever required.

According to the military, the operation began several days ago with significant troop deployments and is aimed at extending what Israel describes as its forward defensive line.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier stated that Israeli forces had advanced deeper into Lebanese territory. The latest escalation comes despite a ceasefire that partially took effect on April 17. Lebanese officials accuse Israel of repeatedly violating the truce as fighting and military operations continue to intensify across the south.