Israel Launches Ground Operations in Southern Lebanon, Displacing Hundreds of Thousands

The Israeli military launched what it described as "limited and targeted ground operations" in southern Lebanon on March 16, with troops from the 91st division focusing on key Hezbollah strongholds. The operation centers on the town of Khiam, a Hezbollah stronghold located just kilometers from the Israeli border that sits on high ground overlooking northern Israel and nearby Lebanese plains. At least three air strikes hit Khiam on Monday, according to reporting from Al Jazeera Arabic.

The military said the operations aim to enhance what it calls the "forward defence area" by destroying what it describes as terrorist infrastructure and eliminating fighters. Israeli forces also conducted raids on multiple towns in the region, including Yater, Burj Qalawiya, Sultaniya, Chaqra, Qantara, and as-Sawana.

Khiam's location gives it strategic importance that both Israel and Hezbollah recognize. The town sits on a junction that connects to the eastern and western sectors of southern Lebanon and provides access to the Bekaa Valley in eastern Lebanon, another area where Hezbollah maintains influence. According to Al Jazeera's Zeina Khodr, Israel has been attempting to cut Hezbollah's supply lines and disrupt its ability to bring weapons and fighters to areas south of the Litani River.

The elevation of Khiam provides commanding views that benefit whichever side controls it. Khodr described a "major battle" underway in and around the town.

Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed at least 850 people, including 107 children and 66 women. More than 800,000 people have been forced to flee their homes after the Israeli army issued evacuation orders for neighborhoods in southern Lebanon and the capital, Beirut. An Israeli strike hit Beirut's southern suburbs on March 15, with the military issuing evacuation warnings for several neighborhoods in the area that morning.

The displacement represents one of the largest population movements in the region. Lebanese authorities reported that more than 830,000 people have registered as displaced from their homes.

The latest conflict began after Hezbollah fired rockets in response to the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Hezbollah had not attacked Israel since a 2024 ceasefire brokered by the United States, despite repeated Israeli violations of the deal. The escalation marks a major shift in a conflict that has already reshaped the region's security landscape.