Updated by Faith Barbara N Ruhinda at 1317 EAT on Monday 16 March 2026

Israeli Military Launches Ground Operations in Southern Lebanon Amid Intensifying Clashes Near Khiam
The Israeli military has begun ground operations in southern Lebanon as fighting against Hezbollah intensifies around the strategic town of Khiam, according to military sources.

At least three air strikes reportedly hit Khiam on Monday, Al Jazeera Arabic reported, as Israel aims to target Hezbollah positions in the area.

The escalation comes amid a broader surge in cross-border hostilities, with both sides exchanging artillery, air strikes, and drone attacks. Israeli forces said the ground operations are limited and targeted, focusing on key sites used by Hezbollah.

Military officials warned that the operations are part of a strategy to disrupt militant infrastructure in southern Lebanon while minimizing civilian casualties.

The situation has raised tensions in the region, with international observers expressing concern over the potential for a wider escalation.

Khiam, a strategic Hezbollah stronghold considered a gateway to southern Lebanon, has come under intensified Israeli military operations amid the latest escalation in the region. The conflict erupted after Hezbollah fired rockets in response to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Since the 2024 ceasefire, Hezbollah had not attacked Israel despite repeated alleged violations of the U.S.-brokered agreement.

On Monday morning, two Israeli air raids targeted the town of Yater, according to Al Jazeera Arabic, with no immediate reports of casualties or damage. Additional raids were conducted in Burj Qalawiya, Sultaniya, Chaqra, Qantara, and as-Sawana, also in southern Lebanon.

In a post on X, the Israeli army said its troops had in recent days focused on ground operations targeting key locations in southern Lebanon to expand the forward defence area.

“This operation is part of the effort to establish the forward defence, which includes destroying terrorist infrastructure and eliminating terrorists,” the army statement said.

The escalation in southern Lebanon highlights the fragile security situation along the Israel-Lebanon border, raising concerns among international observers about the potential for a broader regional conflict.

A major battle is unfolding in and around Khiam, according to Al Jazeera’s Zeina Khodr, who described the town as a key strategic location for both sides.

“The elevation of Khiam gives both sides a strategic advantage,” Khodr said, noting that the town sits on a long and important junction connecting the eastern and western sectors of southern Lebanon.

“One of the roads leads to the Bekaa Valley in eastern Lebanon, another area under Hezbollah influence,” she added.
Khodr explained that Israel’s military objective is to cut Hezbollah’s supply lines and restrict its ability to move weapons and fighters south of the Litani River.

The ongoing conflict has forced more than 800,000 people, including women and children, to flee their homes. Evacuation orders have been issued for many neighbourhoods in southern Lebanon as well as parts of the capital, Beirut.

Israeli attacks in Lebanon have so far claimed at least 850 lives, including 107 children and 66 women, according to reports.

-Aljazeera

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