Israel reinforces positions for prolonged deployment in southern Lebanon — Asharq Al-Awsat

The Israeli army is reinforcing positions and improving access roads for the prolonged deployment of troops in southern Lebanon. As Asharq Al-Awsat reports, the troops are also expanding the fire zone north of the so-called Yellow Line — a designation used by the Israeli army.

Preparations for winter

According to the Israeli outlet Ynet, the 55th Reserve Paratroopers Brigade has completed its mission and handed over its positions to other units. The brigade was mobilized for about 100 days, 80 of which it spent in operations in Lebanon — in the area between the border and the Yellow Line, at a depth of up to 12 kilometers.

It is being replaced by forces from the Bislah Brigade and the Gefen Battalion of the officer training school. They are conducting training and setting up positions that enable surveillance and fire control over areas deeper inside Lebanon. Israeli security officials cited by Ynet said the military would spend the winter in fortified compounds in villages. The buildings were equipped with generators, air conditioning, and sanitary facilities in summer, while access routes were prepared in advance.

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Shelling near villages

According to southern Lebanese security sources, the Israeli army has established 17 permanent military positions since May. Local sources reported increased shelling and drone activity toward the second line of villages near the Yellow Line. The strikes, they said, reached the outskirts of Wadi Zibqin in the western sector and Mayfadoun southeast of Nabatieh.

Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported an airstrike on Kfar Tibnit after artillery shelling between Arnoun and Kfar Tibnit. Artillery also struck near a school in Mayfadoun, in the Dawhat Kfar Roummane area, and on the outskirts of Haris and Haddatha. Shelling was also reported in Houla, on the outskirts of Shaqra, in a forested area near Kounine, Wadi al-Hujayr, and Mansouri.

Israeli military personnel injured

The Israeli army separately said that on Friday in Majdal Zoun, one serviceman was seriously injured and an officer sustained moderate injuries as a result of an improper grenade throw. Another eight Israeli servicemen were injured that day in a collision between two vehicles in southern Lebanon.