Israeli war on Lebanon escalates as ground operations expand, bridges over Litani River targeted

BEIRUT: The Israeli military on Sunday announced an expansion of its ground campaign in Lebanon, warning of a lengthy operation, as Beirut condemned what it described as Israel's flagrant violations of Lebanese sovereignty.

Israeli forces struck a key bridge connecting southern Lebanon to the rest of the country on Sunday, following orders issued to the military to destroy all crossings over the Litani River and to intensify the demolition of homes near the southern border.

Key infrastructure targeted

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) were ordered to destroy all bridges over the Litani River as part of the expanded campaign. Among the structures targeted was the strategically important Qasmiyeh bridge near the city of Tyre, which was damaged in the strikes.

The destruction of bridges and residential structures represents a significant escalation in Israel's military operations in Lebanon. International law generally prohibits militaries from targeting civilian infrastructure, and the United Nations human rights chief has criticised Israel's actions in Lebanon, particularly its use of widespread evacuation orders.

Lebanese president condemns attacks

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the Israeli attacks, characterising them as a "prelude to a ground invasion." The Lebanese government has accused Israel of committing flagrant violations of the country's sovereignty through its expanding military operations.

The announcement of expanded ground operations marks a new phase in the Israeli military campaign in Lebanon, with the IDF signalling that the operation could extend over a prolonged period. The escalation comes amid growing international concern over the humanitarian impact of the conflict, particularly on civilians in southern Lebanon who have been affected by evacuation orders and the destruction of vital infrastructure.

Escalation draws international scrutiny

The targeting of bridges over the Litani River effectively cuts off key supply and transit routes for residents in southern Lebanon, raising further concerns about the humanitarian situation in the region. The demolition of homes near the southern border adds to the displacement crisis already unfolding in the area.

The United Nations has been vocal in its criticism of the broader Israeli campaign, with the UN human rights chief specifically taking issue with the scale of evacuation orders being issued by the Israeli military, which have affected large swathes of the civilian population in Lebanon's south.

The expansion of ground operations and the systematic targeting of infrastructure signal that the conflict between Israel and Lebanon is entering a more intense and potentially prolonged phase, with significant implications for regional stability and civilian welfare.