Israeli troops reach Deir Mimas, tighten grip near Litani River

Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) units have advanced into the southern Lebanese village of Deir Mimas under the cover of artillery fire, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict. 

Deir Mimas, located on the banks of the Litani River, holds strategic importance as it represents the boundary beyond which Israel demands Hezbollah’s withdrawal under a potential ceasefire agreement, Caliber.Az reports citing Lebanese media.

The village is situated just 2.5 kilometres from the historic Beaufort fortress and three kilometres northwest of Metula, adding to its tactical significance.

The IDF has reported the destruction of more than 45 Hezbollah rocket launchers in southern Lebanon over the past week. Many of these launchers had already been used in attacks on Israeli territory, including strikes on Nagaria on November 21 and Haifa on the night of November 22. The Israeli military confirmed that these launchers, alongside others prepared for use, were destroyed to prevent further rocket attacks.

The conflict has brought severe consequences for civilians in southern Lebanon. Israeli airstrikes targeting the Tyre district have resulted in significant casualties. In the town of Marrakech, an airstrike killed four people and injured five others, followed by a renewed strike that claimed four additional lives and wounded 39 more. Another airstrike in Qlaileh led to the death of one individual. Other areas, including Jwaya, Debaal, Aabbassiyeh, Majdal Zoun, and Bazouriye, also came under fire, resulting in injuries to 26 people. The Lebanese National News Agency reported that Israeli airstrikes targeted towns such as Wadi Hamoul and Labbouneh near Naqoura, with artillery and white phosphorus shells causing further destruction.

Clashes have intensified as Israeli forces pushed toward the villages of Shama and Biyyadah. During this offensive, Hezbollah resistance was reported while the group’s Secretary-General Naim Qassem delivered a video address. The escalation coincided with the visit of US envoy Amos Hochstein to Lebanon, underscoring heightened tensions as Washington continues its steadfast support for Israel.

The current developments are part of Israel’s broader military campaign. On September 23, Israel launched Operation Arrows of the North, aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s infrastructure near the border and ensuring the safety of Israeli civilians. The operation has included widespread airstrikes throughout Lebanon. On September 27, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was reportedly killed in an airstrike, and on October 1, the IDF initiated a “limited” ground operation in southern Lebanon.

By Tamilla Hasanova