Daijiworld Media Network - Beirut

Beirut, Mar 23: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Sunday carried out airstrikes on the Qasmiya Bridge over the Litani River in southern Lebanon, causing extensive damage and rendering the crossing unusable.

The bridge, located near Tyre, is a crucial link connecting southern Lebanon with the rest of the country. Lebanese state media reported multiple strikes on the structure, along with damage to nearby electricity networks, shops and agricultural areas.

The attack came hours after Israel had warned of targeting crossings over the Litani River. The strike is part of a broader strategy to restrict movement in areas where the Iran-backed Hezbollah operates.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the strike, calling it a “dangerous escalation” and a violation of the country’s sovereignty. He warned that targeting key infrastructure could be a precursor to a wider ground operation.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military had been instructed to destroy bridges used for militant activity to prevent the movement of fighters and weapons across southern Lebanon.

The IDF also indicated plans to expand ground operations against Hezbollah, with Army Chief Eyal Zamir describing the campaign as a prolonged one.

The escalation follows ongoing cross-border hostilities after Hezbollah entered the conflict earlier this month, raising fears of a wider regional war.