Israel declares new 'combat zone' in southern Lebanon and orders evacuations

AI Summary

Israel has declared a new combat zone in southern Lebanon, ordering evacuations as military strikes intensify despite a prior ceasefire. The move aims to pressure Hezbollah but seeks to avoid escalating conflict in Beirut to maintain US-led diplomatic efforts with Iran.

Israel has expanded its military campaign in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, ordering residents to evacuate areas south of the Zahrani River as strikes intensify despite an April ceasefire. The escalation comes as Israeli officials seek to pressure Hezbollah while avoiding actions in Beirut that could complicate US-led diplomacy with Iran.