According to Israeli media, Israel’s military has shifted to a more aggressive operational approach in southern Lebanon, citing intelligence that Hezbollah is using civilian reconstruction projects to rebuild military infrastructure near the border.
Northern Command Chief General Rafi Milo ordered the new policy, which includes targeting militants, striking tunnels and weapons storage sites, and expanding freedom of movement for Israeli forces. Military officials described the move as proactive, aimed at preventing Hezbollah from reestablishing a military foothold along the border.
Sources within the command told Israeli media that Hezbollah is conducting an intensive reconstruction effort at multiple sites simultaneously, combining civilian infrastructure work with the development of military facilities, while attempting to conceal these activities from Israeli intelligence.
The IDF said the offensive policy is intended to counteract Hezbollah’s long-term plans to rebuild its presence in southern Lebanon and to maintain Israel’s security along the northern border.
The announcement comes amid heightened political focus in Beirut on efforts to extend arms control beyond the south. On Feb. 16, Lebanon’s Cabinet met at Baabda Palace to deliberate an army plan aimed at restricting weapons north of the Litani River as part of a second phase of ceasefire implementation.
Army chief General Rodolphe Haykal told ministers that this phase could take four to eight months, and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam signaled openness to expanding the state’s oversight under the ceasefire mechanism.
Hezbollah Secretary‑General Naim Qassem has called the disarmament push a “grave mistake,” though the group maintains it does not seek war with Israel.
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