Israeli forces close to Nabatija as Lebanon tensions intensify

U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michael Issa warned that further escalation in Lebanon must be avoided and called for continued negotiations between Israel and Lebanon. He stressed that stability is essential for businesses and investors operating in the region.

Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon have intensified, with airstrikes and drone attacks reported across the south and east of the country. At least 13 people were killed, including two civilians in a drone strike on a vehicle in Sidon. Israeli troops have moved within a few kilometres of the town of Nabatija, near the strategic Beaufort Castle, raising fears of a possible assault on the city. Hezbollah has claimed additional attacks on Israeli positions, while Lebanese authorities say two Lebanese civilians were abducted by Israeli forces.

The heightened fighting elevates security risks for the region’s supply chains and could impact commercial activity, prompting calls for operational resilience and updated risk assessments by companies with interests in Lebanon and the surrounding area.