Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the demolition of all bridges over the Litani River and accelerated destruction of Lebanese homes near the Israeli border. The directive aims to halt Hezbollah movement following the first Israeli civilian death linked to fire from Lebanon.
Two Israeli soldiers also died in southern Lebanon fighting. International law generally prohibits attacking civilian infrastructure, drawing criticism from the UN human rights chief regarding widespread evacuation orders.
Katz likened the strategy to buffer zones established in Gaza. An intensive bombing campaign continues targeting Hezbollah across Beirut and southern Lebanon. Over 1,000 people have been killed in Lebanon since the escalation began earlier this year.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot expressed reservations about significant ground operations during talks in Jerusalem. He urged officials to seek lasting solutions beyond military force.