Israel warns Lebanese civilians to avoid southern villages ‘until further notice’
Syrians, who were living in Lebanon and returned to Syria due to ongoing hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, carry belongings at the Syrian-Lebanese border, in Jdaydet Yabous, Syria, September 25, 2024. (Reuters/Yamam al Shaar)
The Israeli military has issued another warning to the Lebanese civilians who evacuated southern villages not to return home due to ongoing Israeli raids in the region.
In a social media post, the Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson Avichay Adraee emphasized that for their safety and the safety of their families, civilians should avoid returning to evacuated areas “until further notice.”
Warning to stay clear of southern Lebanon
Adraee stressed that Israeli military operations are ongoing in southern Lebanon. “For your safety and the safety of your families, stay away from the villages that were ordered to evacuate,” he stated. The warning comes as tensions continue to rise along the Israeli-Lebanese border amid increased military activity.
Prohibition on heading South
In an earlier statement, Adraee prohibited civilians from heading south, warning that any movement toward the area could be dangerous.
“Be careful. You are prohibited from heading south. Any movement south could put you in danger,” he posted on social media.
“For your safety and the safety of your family members, you must evacuate this building and the surrounding buildings immediately and stay away from them for a distance of no less than 500 meters” he said.
Hezbollah-related warnings
Adraee also reiterated warnings that individuals near Hezbollah members, installations, or equipment are at risk. He cautioned that any house used for Hezbollah’s military activities would be targeted.
“Anyone who is near Hezbollah elements, installations, and combat equipment is putting his life at risk,” he stated.
