Israel tells people in large parts of southern Lebanon to leave ahead of attacks
BBC World
March 4, 2026
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Tens of thousands of civilians in southern Lebanon have been forced to flee their homes as Israel intensifies military action against Hezbollah following rocket attacks by the group. The Israeli military has ordered residents in a wide area of southern Lebanon to evacuate north of the Litani River ahead of planned strikes, displacing people already impacted by ongoing hostilities since fighting erupted on Monday. Many are seeking shelter in tents, parks, and cars, while food kitchens struggle to meet growing demand.
The escalation comes after Hezbollah launched rockets and drones at Israel in response to US and Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. These attacks marked the first since a November 2024 ceasefire, despite Israel continuing near-daily strikes targeting Hezbollah positions. The conflict has spilled into areas like southern Lebanon and the Dahieh suburbs, traditionally Hezbollah strongholds.
Displaced individuals face harsh conditions, with many recounting multiple prior displacements during past conflicts. Some, like 56-year-old Lamyaa, have been forced to live in tents for extended periods, describing the experience as humiliating. Meanwhile, public sentiment is divided: some criticize Hezbollah's actions, while others express faith in the group’s ability to protect them despite accusations of weakened capabilities.
The humanitarian crisis deepens with reports of overcrowded shelters and strained resources, particularly as families mark Ramadan. The conflict has also reached areas previously considered safe, such as a hotel in an upscale Christian-majority district near the presidential palace, where one person was seriously injured. This escalation underscores Lebanon's ongoing instability, with broader implications for regional security and global concern over the humanitarian toll.
This situation highlights the dire need for stability in the region, as civilians continue to bear the brunt of escalating violence. The displacement and suffering of Lebanese communities, coupled with
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Originally published on BBC World on 3/4/2026