Israel Extends Buffer Zone Into Lebanon, Bombs Kill At Least 18

Israel intensified its offensive across southern Lebanon, with Netanyahu ordering an expansion of the buffer zone to the Litani River.

Defense Minister Katz said more than 600,000 Lebanese displaced north of the Litani would not be allowed to return.

Al Jazeera

Houses would be demolished in border villages similar to what happened in Gaza.

The Israeli Army's 36th Armored Division and Mountain Unit 810 were actively engaged.

Calibre Defence reported the buffer would cover about 30 kilometers, incorporating three zones of threat.

The Israeli campaign killed at least 18 Lebanese people on March 29, including five from the same family in Tyre.

More than 700 buildings were destroyed or damaged.

Al Jazeera

French media reported fires and chemical leaks at a damaged factory in Tyre, prompting evacuations.

Human Rights Watch accused the Israeli military of apparently deliberate attacks on civilians.

Israeli forces advanced toward Hasbaya and cleared Hills 65 and 69 near the border.

“Israel is preparing to widen the scope of its operations in southern Lebanon as the 'Lion's Roar' operation enters a new phase”

Calibre Defence

Bridges were targeted to isolate southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah launched retaliatory attacks, firing rockets toward northern Israel and targeting locations in Tel Aviv.

Israeli channels confirmed at least five soldiers killed since the Lebanon operation began.

The conflict's geographic scope widened considerably.

Israeli strikes caused widespread damage to critical infrastructure.

Hundreds of schools were destroyed or damaged.

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Hospitals were overwhelmed or incapacitated.

The UN warned of a setting powder keg.

Lebanese Prime Minister Salam said Israel would broaden its aggression.