The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have issued a stern warning regarding the potential targeting of ambulances in southern Lebanon. The IDF claims these vehicles are being utilised by Hezbollah for transporting fighters and weapons, though evidence supporting this assertion has not been provided.
This development comes on the heels of an incident involving UN peacekeepers, where Israeli forces reportedly struck positions held by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), resulting in injuries to personnel.
IDF spokesperson Avichay Adraee made a public appeal to medical teams, urging them to avoid any association with Hezbollah members. The military has stated its intention to take action against any vehicle suspected of carrying armed individuals, regardless of its designation.
In a related move, the IDF has expanded evacuation orders, now encompassing 22 villages in southern Lebanon. Residents have been directed to relocate north of the Awali River, with stark warnings against returning to their homes or venturing southward due to ongoing military operations in the region.
This escalation marks a significant intensification of the conflict along the Israel-Lebanon border, raising concerns about the safety of civilians and the potential for further regional instability.