Israeli army orders evacuation of 16 towns in southern Lebanon despite ceasefire

The Israeli army on Tuesday issued immediate evacuation warnings for residents of 16 towns in southern Lebanon, in the latest violation of a temporary ceasefire between Beirut and Tel Aviv.

In a statement posted on US social media company X, Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee urged residents of the towns of Ghandoorieh, Borj Qalaouiyeh, Qalaouiyeh, Sawaneh, Jmeijmeh, Safad al-Battikh, Braachit, Shaqra, Aita al-Jabal, Tebnine, Sultaniyeh, Bir al-Sanasil, Dounine, Kherbet Selem, Selaa, and Deir Kifa to evacuate and head north.

He said the warning was issued in light of “violations of the ceasefire by Hezbollah.”

“The army does not intend to harm you,” Adraee claimed, urging residents to evacuate their homes immediately and head toward the Sidon area for their safety.

He warned that anyone near Hezbollah operatives, infrastructure, or military equipment “would be at risk.”

Israel has continued its strikes in Lebanon despite the truce amid repeated violations. US President Donald Trump said last week he had sought to prevent Israel from carrying out airstrikes on Lebanon.

Trump first announced a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon on April 17, before saying Thursday it would be extended by three weeks.

Before the truce, Israel launched an offensive on March 2 that has killed at least 2,509 people and wounded 7,755 others, while displacing more than 1.6 million, according to official figures.