Israel army warns south Lebanon residents ‘not to return homes’
Palestinian residents, carrying their personal belongings with them, are on their way to migrate for safer areas following the Israeli army's orders evacuation of the area called D5 in Gaza City, Gaza on October 12, 2024. (Dawoud Abo Alkas - Anadolu Agency)
The Israeli military on Saturday warned residents of southern Lebanon not to return to their homes as clashes with Hezbollah militants continue in the region.
Israeli forces have intensified strikes on Hezbollah positions, and residents have been urged to avoid the area for their safety.
Israeli military spokesperson issues alert
Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee advised civilians to stay away from the region, particularly villages where Hezbollah has established posts. “For your own protection, do not return to your homes until further notice. Do not go south; anyone who goes south may put their life at risk,” Adraee said on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson warned citizens in the villages of Aita al-Shaab, Ramyeh, Yater, Qawzah, Beit Lif, Hanin, Rshaf, Ainta, Qlaila, Al-Hawsh, Nabaa, Tulin, Al-Tamriya, Al-Khiyam, Al-Kharba, Kfar Hamam, Arab Al-Luwaizeh, Abu Zebla Bridge, Jabal Al-Adas, Dahr Bariyeh Jaber, Kafra, Ramadiyeh and Zebqin.
“Warning: You are prohibited from heading south, as any movement towards that direction poses a danger to your life. We will inform you when it is safe to return home,” he stated.
Israel’s warning to medical teams
In addition to the evacuation warning, Adraee reiterated a caution to medical workers in southern Lebanon, urging them not to cooperate with Hezbollah.
He claimed ambulances may be used to transport militants, adding that any vehicle carrying armed individuals would be targeted, regardless of its type.
Multi-front conflict intensifies
Israel continues to battle Palestinian militants in Gaza while engaging Hezbollah along its northern border with Lebanon.
Israel has also ramped up its ground and air operations in Gaza, particularly near the city of Jabalia, warning residents of nearby areas to evacuate.
