Israel is planning to establish a buffer zone inside southern Lebanon and take control of the area up to the Litani River, according to Defense Minister Israel Katz. He stated that around 600,000 displaced residents from southern Lebanon will not be allowed to return home until the security of northern Israel is fully ensured.

Katz also warned that all houses near the Lebanon-Israel border would be destroyed. The move is described as part of a long-term plan aimed at protecting Israel’s border from Hezbollah attacks and strengthening control over the region.

The announcement comes amid ongoing conflict and rising casualties in Lebanon, where reports indicate that 1,268 people have been killed.