Tel aviv: The Israeli army announced on Sunday the destruction of the Qasmiyeh Bridge over the Litani River in southern Lebanon. The military claimed that the bridge was being utilized by the Hezbollah group for transferring fighters, weapons, rockets, and rocket launchers from the northern to the southern side of the river.

According to Anadolu Agency, the army stated that the crossing was a route for Hezbollah commanders and fighters to execute attacks against Israeli forces and civilians. The destruction of the bridge was aimed at safeguarding both Israeli and Lebanese civilians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had ordered an immediate military strike on bridges over the Litani River, as reported by Israeli media.

Defense Minister Israel Katz explained that the military action was intended to hinder the movement of Hezbollah fighters and weapons toward the south. The Qasmiyeh Bridge, previously targeted by Israeli forces, is a crucial crossing on Lebanon's southern coastal highway near Tyre. It serves as a significant link between the Sidon district and areas south of the river.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed strong disapproval of the strikes, labeling them as a "dangerous escalation" and a "blatant violation of Lebanese sovereignty." He voiced concerns that damaging infrastructure and vital facilities in southern Lebanon might be a precursor to a ground invasion. Aoun emphasized that Lebanon had consistently issued warnings against such actions through diplomatic channels.

The regional tensions have intensified following joint US and Israel attacks on Iran on February 28. Subsequently, Israel expanded its offensive against Hezbollah on March 2, leading to a limited ground incursion into southern Lebanon on March 3.