Israeli demolitions in southern Lebanon escalate amid ongoing conflict

Towns and villages in southern Lebanon are being systematically demolished by Israeli forces, as revealed by satellite images and verified videos from BBC Verify. Since March 2, more than 1,400 buildings have been destroyed, with the true scale likely much higher due to limited ground access. This demolition campaign follows Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz's directive on March 22 to "accelerate the destruction of Lebanese homes" near the Israeli border, modeled after tactics used in Gaza.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claim their operations adhere to the Law of Armed Conflict, stating that property destruction is only permitted when there is an imperative military necessity. However, international law experts suggest that the scale of the demolitions may constitute a war crime. The IDF's actions come in response to Hezbollah's rocket and drone attacks on Israel, which were launched following the killing of Iran's supreme leader.

The conflict has resulted in over 1.2 million displaced individuals in Lebanon, with significant casualties reported on both sides. The IDF's strategy appears to be aimed at establishing a "security zone" extending from the border to the Litani River, potentially controlling about 10% of Lebanon's territory. This move raises concerns regarding the long-term implications for Lebanese sovereignty and the humanitarian impact on civilian populations.

What to watch: The international community's response to Israel's demolition campaign and any potential legal ramifications under international humanitarian law.