Headline: Israel Expands Lebanon Offensive with Strikes Beyond Hezbollah Areas

Why this matters: The conflict risks further regional escalation and a worsening humanitarian crisis. Large-scale displacement and infrastructure damage are increasing.

Date: 1 April 2026

Tags: Middle East, Defence, Conflict, Humanitarian

Summary:

• Israel intensified air strikes across Lebanon, including areas outside Hezbollah control.

• Attacks hit central Beirut, including the Jnah neighbourhood and areas north of the city.

• Israeli military says it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure and killed senior figures.

• Strikes continued in southern suburbs and southern Lebanon, Hezbollah strongholds.

• A health facility in southern Lebanon was hit, killing a paramedic.

• At least seven people were killed in southern Lebanon strikes on Tuesday.

• Total deaths in Lebanon have reached 1,268 since the conflict escalated.

• More than one million people have been displaced, according to the UN.

• Israel is advancing ground troops into southern Lebanon.

• Israeli plans include controlling territory up to the Litani River as a buffer zone.

• Defence Minister Israel Katz said displaced residents may be barred from returning.

• Infrastructure damage, including bridges, has disrupted supply routes in the south.

• Lebanese army has withdrawn from some southern positions after attacks.

• Hezbollah joined the conflict after US-Israel strikes on Iran on 28 February.

• Residents report ongoing displacement, destruction, and uncertainty about the conflict’s duration.

What’s next: Israel may expand its ground operations and maintain control over southern areas. Prolonged fighting with Hezbollah remains likely.