Beirut: Israeli warplanes targeted and destroyed two bridges Friday on the Litani River, linking the towns of Sohmor and Machghara in the western Bekaa region of eastern Lebanon. According to Lebanon's National News Agency, the Israeli aircraft struck the bridges as part of a strategic operation.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Israeli army announced earlier on Friday that the targeting of these two bridges in southern Lebanon was intended to prevent the transfer of reinforcements and weapons to Hezbollah. The bridges form a crucial part of the local road network, essential for the daily movement of residents in the western Bekaa area.

On March 23, the Israeli army had previously destroyed the Al-Dalafa Bridge, another significant crossing on the Litani River, citing similar preventative measures against Hezbollah. The Litani River, Lebanon's main waterway, flows through the Bekaa Valley and is a vital geographic feature for the region, stretching approximately 170 kilometers.

The river's proximity to the Lebanese-Israeli border varies, with some sections as close as 4 kilometers, while others are around 30 kilometers away. Seven bridges span the Litani, including major crossings such as Qasmiyeh, Khardali, Qaqaiyat al-Jisr, and Tayr Felsay. The recent strikes have left significant gaps in this network, impacting civilian infrastructure and mobility.

Since March 2, following a cross-border attack by Hezbollah, Israel has conducted airstrikes and a ground offensive targeting various locations in Lebanon. Lebanese authorities report that the ongoing Israeli assault has resulted in the deaths of nearly 1,368 people, with 4,138 wounded.