IDF Continues Campaign Against Hezbollah, Reports Over 1,000 Operatives Killed

IDF Continues Campaign Against Hezbollah, Reports Over 1,000 Operatives Killed

Emmitt Barry

 The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced Sunday that it has killed more than 1,000 operatives from the Iranian-backed terrorist group Hezbollah since the group entered the war on March 2, signaling a sustained and expanding military campaign along Israel’s northern front.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said operations are being carried out “with determination, extensively and across multiple fronts,” as Israeli forces continue ground and air activity in southern Lebanon. Speaking during a field assessment near Ras el-Bayada, Zamir emphasized that the campaign targets Hezbollah’s operatives, command centers, weapons infrastructure, and financial networks.

The military has designated the area south of the Litani River as an active operational zone, vowing to maintain its presence until threats to Israel’s northern communities are eliminated. Israeli officials said advance warnings were issued to civilians in southern Lebanon to minimize harm and allow operational freedom.

The escalation follows Hezbollah’s barrage of rockets and drones launched on March 2, which came after Israel’s strike that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during the opening phase of Operation Roaring Lion/Epic Fury. Israeli forces subsequently expanded operations in Lebanon, citing violations of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement.

On the ground, troops from the IDF’s Golani Brigade uncovered significant weapons caches hidden בתוך civilian infrastructure, including inside a school. The military reported finding Radwan Force materials, rocket launchers, explosives, and equipment linked to Iranian shipments to Shi’ite villages.

Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes have continued in Beirut, targeting Hezbollah command centers and financial assets. The IDF said it struck multiple fuel stations operated by the Al-Amana company, which it claims were used to fund terrorist operations and support weapons transport. More than 15 such sites have been hit since the campaign began.

Despite the ongoing conflict, Lebanese leaders are increasingly calling for de-escalation. President Joseph Aoun urged negotiations with Israel, warning of widespread devastation if fighting continues. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has also called for limiting Hezbollah’s military activity and bringing weapons under state control.

However, Hezbollah leadership has rejected such demands. Secretary-General Naim Qassem dismissed calls for disarmament, accusing Israel of broader territorial ambitions.

As tensions persist, the IDF reaffirmed its commitment to continue decisive operations against Hezbollah, stating the group’s alignment with Iran has further entrenched the conflict across the region.