Israel's army can now do more ground and air attacks. This is along its northern border. The goal is to stop Hezbollah's military power. Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Sunday that the army will destroy bridges over the Litani River. This will make it hard for Hezbollah fighters and weapons to move. Israel will also destroy homes near the border. These actions are like those in Gaza. They want to create safe areas and protect Israeli towns.
The fighting has already caused deaths. An Israeli civilian died near the border from a rocket. This is the first civilian death there. Two Israeli soldiers also died fighting in south Lebanon. In Lebanon, over one thousand people have died. This includes many children and health workers. Israeli bombs have also caused a big problem. Many people have left their homes. They are living in tents, even in Beirut.
Destroying important bridges shows Israel is planning more attacks. An Israeli airstrike damaged the Qasmiye bridge. This bridge connects south Lebanon to other parts. This shows Israel is targeting transport routes. Israel also destroyed other bridges over the Litani River. They say this is to stop "terrorist activity." They also want to stop Hezbollah moving weapons south.
Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun is worried. He thinks these attacks could mean an invasion. He said it is "punishment for all civilians." People in Lebanon fear Israel wants to block the south. They think a big ground attack might happen. This could be to take land or make a safety zone. The United Nations also criticized Israel's actions.
These attacks happen after Hezbollah sent many rockets to Israel. This was after Iran's leader was killed. Now, there is a lot of fighting. Villages in south Lebanon are suffering from bombing. Israel wants to weaken Hezbollah. This is to protect people in northern Israel. The fighting is getting worse. More people could die. Many more could lose their homes.