Israeli war minister Yisrael Katz says army razed villages in South Lebanon

Israeli war minister Yisrael Katz told an Israeli media interview that the Israel Defense Forces systematically destroyed infrastructure and homes in 24 border villages of South Lebanon, using bulldozers and explosives. He claimed that between 15,000 and 20,000 houses were demolished, about 90 % of the buildings in the targeted villages, creating a depopulated security zone along the border.

Katz said the army now controls roughly 700 km² in South Lebanon – an area about twice the size of Gaza – and reported that Israel has killed around 9,000 Hezbollah fighters, including 3,500 in the “Lion’s Roar” operation. He also alleged the discovery of a large Iran‑backed tunnel network. The statements reflect Israel’s policy of permanent occupation and control rather than temporary military action.