Israeli forces pushed further into southern Lebanon on March 16, 2026, seizing strategic positions north of the Litani River after Hezbollah launched rockets and drones, escalating the 2026 Lebanon war.
Map of Israeli evacuation zones expanding in south Lebanon.
Ground Incursions and Evacuations
IDF entered villages like Kfar Kila, Houla, Yaroun, and Khiam, using white phosphorus strikes on Yohmor. Over 80 villages ordered evacuated; Hezbollah reports direct combat on four axes, prioritizing repelling advances with reinforcements blocked by airstrikes.
Hezbollah Response
Group fired missiles at Golan Heights, Haifa, and bases like Ramat David; vowed “open war” after ceasefire collapse. IDF accuses ambulance misuse; strikes hit Beirut high-rises, Al-Manar HQ, and drone warehouses.
Broader War Ties
Linked to US-Israel-Iran conflict since Khamenei’s death; Israel plans “massive” invasion like Gaza to uproot Hezbollah, amid 820+ deaths and tens of thousands displaced.
