Israeli military orders evacuation of over 20 southern Lebanese towns
Israeli commando brigade and the paratroopers in southern Lebanon. (IDF)
The Israeli military has issued evacuation orders to residents of more than 20 towns in southern Lebanon, warning them to leave immediately.
The evacuation directive, announced by Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee on X, formerly Twitter, instructs residents to move north of the Awali River for their safety as Israeli forces prepare to take action against Hezbollah positions in the area.
More than 20 southern Lebanese towns
Adraee listed the towns targeted for evacuation, including Hanieh, Rashidieh, Ain Baal, al-Bazouriyeh, and others, emphasizing that “anyone who is near Hezbollah elements, installations, and combat equipment is putting his life at risk.” He further warned that “any house used by Hezbollah for its military needs is expected to be targeted.”
“Warning to the residents of the following villages in South Lebanon: Hanieh, Samaieh, Rashidieh, Maashouk, Al-Bas, Zaqouq Al-Mofdi, Shamlaya, Shabriha, Al-Barghliyeh, Qasmiyeh Camp, Nabi Qasim, Jabal Al-Batm, Ain Baal, Al-Bazouriyeh, Tayr Dibba, Mazraat Shad’it, Burj Rahhal, Sarbin, Bayad, Baflieh, Dahr Barieh Jaber, Jabal Al-Adas, Bastit, Arzoun, Shahour, Al-Sultaniyah, Donin, Toulin, Tamrieh, Majdal Salm, Al-Qusayr, Adshit Al-Qusayr, Deir Siryan, Deir Mimas, Qala’a” Adraee said in his statement.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that while they do not intend to harm civilians, Hezbollah’s activities in southern Lebanon have necessitated decisive military action. “Evacuate your homes immediately. Be careful, you must not go south. Any southward movement may put you in danger,” Adraee said.
Residents were assured they would be notified when it is safe to return to their homes. The escalation follows increased tensions along the Israeli-Lebanese border.
Evacuation order and focus on Hezbollah
The warning from the Israeli military reflects the heightened risk in southern Lebanon as the IDF targets Hezbollah strongholds.
Adraee emphasized that the evacuation order is intended to prevent civilian casualties amid the ongoing military campaign. In a sign that Israel’s invasion of Lebanon is widening, the Israeli military this week issued evacuation orders for large swathes of the south of the country, as well as areas north of Tyre, a long way from the border.
“Anyone who is near Hezbollah elements … is putting his life at risk,” Adraee said in his statement.
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