Beirut/Tel Aviv, 13 August (H.S.): Tensions have escalated over Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon, with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam strongly condemning what he described as the “systematic destruction” of homes, infrastructure and other civilian property in the region, calling it a serious violation of international law and international humanitarian law.

In a statement, Salam said Israeli attacks and military incursions in southern Lebanon, along with the demolition of homes and the alleged systematic destruction of residential properties, infrastructure, government buildings and religious sites, ran contrary to the fundamental principles of international law.

He also questioned Israel’s claim that villages and towns in the area had been designated as “military installations”. According to Salam, describing an area as a military zone cannot justify the destruction of homes, the displacement of residents or preventing people from returning to their communities.

Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz visited southern Lebanon and said Israeli forces would maintain their presence in what he described as a “security zone”.

Katz claimed that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were carrying out operations to destroy underground infrastructure in the area. He also confirmed that homes were being demolished in parts of southern Lebanon.

Israel has maintained that its military operations in southern Lebanon are aimed at eliminating security threats and military infrastructure linked to Hezbollah.

The Lebanese government, however, has alleged that the operations are having a serious impact on civilian populations and vital infrastructure. The contrasting positions have further heightened tensions over Israel’s military presence and activities in southern Lebanon.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar