The Lebanese Army has withdrawn from a military base in the southern village of Kfar Tebnit after Israeli troops advanced into nearby areas, marking another significant development in the increasingly volatile conflict along the Israel-Lebanon front.
According to Lebanese military officials, troops were relocated after Israeli forces moved closer to the area surrounding Kfar Tebnit, near the city of Nabatiyeh. The withdrawal came as Israel issued evacuation warnings covering roughly 20 locations across southern Lebanon and intensified military operations in the region.
Local reports said Israeli airstrikes and artillery shelling struck several villages around Nabatiyeh, with at least two people reported killed in Deir al-Zahrani. Heavy bombardment was also reported around strategic routes linking southern towns.
Military analysts and Lebanese officials believe Israeli forces may be attempting to seize Ali Taher Hill, a key elevated position that overlooks much of Nabatiyeh and surrounding transportation corridors. Control of the hill would provide Israel with a major tactical advantage in southern Lebanon.
The latest advance follows Israel's capture of the nearby Beaufort Castle area in late May, one of its deepest incursions into Lebanon during the current conflict. Israeli operations have steadily expanded despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a broader regional ceasefire.
Meanwhile, the Lebanese Army said an Israeli drone targeted one of its soldiers near Nabatiyeh. The soldier was later struck while traveling on a nearby road and was seriously wounded.
The escalation comes as Washington, Tehran and regional mediators continue efforts to finalize a wider peace arrangement that could include Lebanon. However, Israel has repeatedly stated it intends to continue military operations against Hezbollah regardless of ongoing negotiations.
As fighting continues, fears are growing that Israeli advances and Hezbollah counterattacks could further destabilize southern Lebanon even as diplomatic efforts seek to prevent a broader regional war.