The Israeli government has directed its military to avoid offensive operations in southern Lebanon and to use force only in self-defense or with explicit approval from senior commanders, according to a report published Saturday by The New York Times.
The order was issued late Saturday, June 20, following deadly clashes with Hezbollah earlier in the weekend. Fighting between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed militant group appeared to ease noticeably on Sunday.
Defense Minister Israel Katz sought to clarify the scope of the directive on Sunday, stating that there has never been any restriction on Israeli troops acting to eliminate threats. Israeli forces will continue to hold positions in what Israel describes as a security zone in southern Lebanon, roughly extending about 10 kilometers (6 miles) into Lebanese territory, to protect northern Israeli communities.
The move comes as diplomats work to preserve a fragile cease-fire linked to a broader U.S.-Iran interim agreement. Israel is not a direct party to that deal but has coordinated with Washington on efforts to prevent escalation.
Ongoing Tensions
Israeli troops first entered southern Lebanon in March 2026 as part of a ground offensive aimed at pushing Hezbollah away from the border. Multiple attempts at cease-fires have been announced and partially implemented since then, but violations have repeatedly strained the arrangements. Hezbollah has rejected some terms, demanding a full Israeli withdrawal, while Israel has insisted on maintaining a buffer to prevent the group from rebuilding attack capabilities.
As of Monday, the situation in southern Lebanon remained relatively calm but tense, with no major new incidents reported in the immediate aftermath of the latest directive. Israeli forces continue to operate in the area.
Further talks are expected in the coming days as efforts to stabilize the border region continue.
