Israel Expands Military Operations in Southern Lebanon, Declares Combat Zone

Israel has expanded its military offensive in southern Lebanon, declaring the entire region south of the Zahrani River a combat zone. The Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement confirmed Wednesday that it is engaged in fighting with Israeli forces in the town of Zawtar al-Sharqiyah, located north of the Litani River. The escalation marks Israel's first call for evacuations in the area as military operations intensify across southern Lebanon.