Israeli forces announced on May 31 that they have expanded ground operations targeting the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, successfully capturing the strategic location of Bofor.
In a statement, the Israeli military reported that ground operations commenced in the Bofor ridge and the Wadi Saluki valley in southern Lebanon. Prior to the ground assault, the Israeli Air Force conducted extensive airstrikes on Hezbollah facilities, supported by artillery and tank units.
The Israeli military stated that the operation aims to strengthen operational control in southern Lebanon and eliminate the threat posed by Hezbollah to northern Israel.
Bofor is considered a key strategic point in southern Lebanon, featuring a hilltop fortress from the 12th-century Crusader era, providing a vantage point over northern Israel's Galilee region and Hezbollah's stronghold in Nabatiyeh.
The Israeli military claims that significant military infrastructure built by Hezbollah with Iranian support is concentrated in the Bofor and Wadi Saluki areas. It also noted that Hezbollah has launched hundreds of rockets from this region toward Israeli forces and northern Israel.
The capture of Bofor marks the first time Israeli forces have taken control of the area since their withdrawal from Lebanon in 2000. Israel occupied the region during the 1982 Lebanon War and maintained control until their withdrawal.
Recently, under the direction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli military has increased pressure on Hezbollah. Operations have expanded beyond the 'Yellow Line,' the control line near the border, with advancements reported as far as the Litani River in southern Lebanon on May 29.
This offensive comes at a time when negotiations for a ceasefire between the United States and Iran are ongoing. Reports indicate that Iran has demanded a ceasefire in Lebanon during the talks, raising concerns that Israel's ground operations could impact the negotiations.
In a video statement, Netanyahu remarked, "We have returned to Bofor stronger than ever," describing the capture of Bofor as a significant turning point in Israeli military operations.
He emphasized, "Israel has secured dominance across all fronts, including Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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