Israeli demolitions devastate southern Lebanese towns

Towns and villages in southern Lebanon have been extensively destroyed by Israeli demolitions, according to satellite images and videos analyzed by independent experts.

More than 1,400 buildings have been confirmed destroyed since 2 March, with the actual damage likely higher due to limited ground access and satellite coverage.

The demolitions follow an order from Israel's Defence Minister on 22 March to accelerate the destruction of Lebanese homes near the Israeli border, citing a strategy modeled on previous operations in Gaza.

This campaign is part of Israel's ongoing military actions against Hezbollah.

The destruction has caused significant displacement, with over 1.2 million people estimated to have fled their homes across Lebanon, including approximately 820,000 from the southern region.

The Lebanese health ministry reports that more than 2,000 people have died since the conflict began.

This situation is critical as it raises concerns about potential violations of international law.

Experts have indicated that the systematic demolition of civilian structures may amount to war crimes.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have stated that their operations comply with the Law of Armed Conflict and that property destruction occurs only when there is an imperative military necessity.

They also claim that Hezbollah has embedded military infrastructure within civilian areas, though no evidence has been provided publicly.

The conflict escalated after Hezbollah launched rockets and drones into Israel on 2 March in retaliation for the killing of Iran's supreme leader.

Israel responded with air strikes and a ground invasion targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.

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