Lebanon condemns systematic Israeli destruction across southern villages

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned Israel's systematic destruction of southern villages on Wednesday, characterizing widespread demolitions as direct violations of international humanitarian law.

The statement followed remarks by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, who confirmed military forces were destroying underground infrastructure and residential homes across southern border zones.

Why is Lebanon condemning Israeli destruction in southern villages?

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stated that systematic demolitions targeting civilian homes, public schools, health clinics, and places of worship violate international law. Salam rejected claims that entire villages function as military facilities, asserting that widespread destruction prevents displaced residents from returning. Lebanese officials called for an immediate halt to ongoing border demolitions.

State-run media outlets reported that Israeli troops conducted controlled detonations in southern border communities, including Zawtar al-Shariqya. Lebanese army confirmed the destruction of a local municipal building, a public school, a medical clinic, and multiple private residences. These demolitions occurred adjacent to designated pilot security zones established under recent ceasefire frameworks.

Lebanese Army Chief Rodolphe Haykal met with US General Joseph Clearfield to discuss security implementation challenges. Military leaders emphasized that ongoing bulldozing and infrastructure destruction impede army deployment plans throughout southern territories. President Joseph Aoun also conferred with international representatives regarding regional coordination before upcoming US-sponsored negotiations in Rome.

What is the US position on Israel maintaining a security zone in Lebanon?

United States State Department representatives reiterated that all participating governments must abide by commitments outlined in the June framework agreement. Washington stated that Israel explicitly disclaimed territorial ambitions in Lebanon, emphasizing that maintaining a permanent military presence in the south contradicts long-term regional peace goals. Federal officials expect both nations to adhere to agreed withdrawal timelines.

The June framework agreement requires Hezbollah to disarm while Israeli forces execute a phased withdrawal alongside Lebanese army deployments across pilot zones.

Although overall military engagements decreased following recent diplomatic arrangements, Lebanese authorities continue reporting intermittent air strikes and controlled demolitions. Israeli defense leaders maintain that troop operations remain necessary to dismantle border underground infrastructure.