Israel has expanded its bombing range from southern Beirut further north in Lebanon. Over the past week, the IDF has also targeted the Bekaa Valley in eastern Lebanon. The Israeli military is conducting airstrikes as well as artillery shelling in this area. Bekaa is located approximately 30 km (19 miles) east of Beirut, nestled between Mount Lebanon to the west and the Anti-Lebanon mountains to the east.
The Bekaa Valley stretches about 120 kilometers (75 miles) in length and 16 kilometers (9.9 miles) in width. Across the hills of Lebanon lies Israel's northern border, from which the IDF continues to target this region. The Bekaa Valley is considered a safe haven for Hezbollah. With the Syrian border nearby, Hezbollah fighters can easily retreat into Syria amid intensifying Israeli attacks. Israel is targeting Hezbollah positions within the Bekaa Valley.
In southern Lebanon, Israel has also launched ground operations. The intention is to delve deeper into Lebanon's territories, but the Israeli forces are facing strong resistance from Hezbollah. Employing guerilla tactics, Hezbollah fighters are not only launching rocket attacks but are also using anti-tank missiles against the Israeli army. Additionally, they have planted landmines, compelling the Israeli military to advance cautiously.
In the coming days, Israel is likely to be cautious about deeply entering Lebanon until it is certain that Hezbollah's strength has waned. Currently, it seems Israel's primary focus is on operations in Lebanon, rather than retaliating against Iran's missile attacks, as long as challenges persist from Hezbollah in the southern regions. Israel has struck the Beirut-Damascus highway, effectively severing it from the Bekaa Valley, hindering the route traditionally used to enter Syria from Bekaa Valley.
The ongoing combat intensifies as international observers watch closely.
