Israel has intensified its military operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, launching extensive airstrikes and signalling plans for a broader ground offensive as cross-border fighting escalates.

The Israeli military said it carried out a “wide wave of strikes” targeting Hezbollah infrastructure, while positioning troops for what officials described as a sustained campaign.

Chief of staff, Eyal Zamir said the operation marked the start of a prolonged effort involving coordinated air and ground actions.

As part of the latest strikes, Israeli forces targeted bridges over the Litani River, which they accused Hezbollah of using to transport fighters and weapons.

Lebanese state media reported significant damage to infrastructure, including a major bridge near the southern city of Tyre.

Lebanese President, Joseph Aoun condemned the attacks, describing them as a violation of national sovereignty and warning that the destruction of key infrastructure could indicate preparations for a wider ground invasion.

The escalation follows weeks of intensified hostilities that began after Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel earlier in March. Since then, both sides have exchanged heavy fire, with Israeli forces conducting incursions into southern Lebanon and Hezbollah targeting Israeli positions along the border.

Casualties have continued to rise amid the fighting. Lebanese authorities report that more than 1,000 people have been killed and over one million displaced in recent weeks. Israel has also recorded military and civilian casualties resulting from rocket attacks.

Israeli authorities have issued evacuation warnings to residents in parts of southern Lebanon, citing plans to establish a buffer zone along the border aimed at securing communities in northern Israel.

The ongoing violence has heightened international concern, with calls for de-escalation growing amid fears that the conflict could expand into a broader regional crisis.