IDF limits commanders’ authority in Lebanon, restricts proactive strikes

The Israeli military issued a statement directing forces to operate only within Israel’s self-declared security zone in southern Lebanon.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Israeli military commanders have received new operational restrictions in southern Lebanon that limit the circumstances under which troops may open fire or carry out demolitions, according to a report by The New York Times mciting two Israeli officials.

Under the updated directives, soldiers are authorized to use force only against an immediate threat unless they receive direct approval from the Chief of Staff, the report said. The restrictions also prohibit troops from demolishing homes or infrastructure within the security zone without authorization from senior officers.

The reported changes come as Israel adjusts its military posture following a cease-fire announcement and updated instructions from the country’s political leadership.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that Israeli forces would remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon “for as long as necessary” to protect communities in northern Israel from Hezbollah.

Late Saturday, the Israeli military issued a statement directing forces to operate only within Israel’s self-declared security zone in southern Lebanon. The area, controlled by Israeli troops, extends roughly six miles north of the Israeli border.

The military also released an updated map of the zone that placed Tebnit and Ali al-Taher within the territory under Israeli control. The ridgeline in that area has emerged as a focal point of tensions.

According to The New York Times, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed the military to halt its fire shortly after an Iranian announcement and after retaliation for Hezbollah strikes had concluded.

The newspaper cited two Israeli officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were discussing internal decision-making.

Following those instructions, the military announced that it had received “updated directives” from Israel’s political leadership and would not be “conducting proactive strikes” in Lebanon.

At the same time, the military said it retained the authority to respond if Hezbollah violated the cease-fire or targeted Israeli civilians or Israeli troops.

The revised guidance reflects a shift in operational rules for Israeli forces deployed inside the security zone while maintaining Israel’s stated policy of preserving the ability to respond to threats originating from Lebanon.