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Netanyahu orders escalation of Lebanon strikes to 'crush' Hezbollah

other · 2026-03-31

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Monday that the military would escalate its actions in southern Lebanon, aiming to eliminate Hezbollah. In a Telegram video, he proclaimed plans to increase firepower and intensify strikes against the group. This decision comes amid ongoing clashes despite a ceasefire established on April 17. Reports indicate that discussions between the United States and Iran are progressing toward a resolution concerning the broader Middle Eastern conflict, which encompasses Lebanon. Following Netanyahu’s announcement, civilians were observed evacuating from Beirut's southern suburbs in response to the heightened tensions.

Key facts

  • Netanyahu ordered escalation of strikes in southern Lebanon on Monday.
  • He said: 'We will intensify our blows, increase our firepower, and we will crush them.'
  • Ceasefire from April 17 has not stopped near-daily exchanges of fire.
  • US and Iran are working on an agreement to end the conflict.
  • Residents fled southern Beirut suburbs after the announcement.

Entities

Institutions

  • Agence France-Presse
  • Telegram

Locations

  • Israel
  • Lebanon
  • Beirut
  • southern Lebanon
  • southern suburbs of Beirut
  • Middle East

Sources