IDF says ground troops killed dozens of Hezbollah operatives during ‘targeted raids’ in south Lebanon

Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent

IDF troops of the 7th Armored Brigade operate in southern Lebanon, in a handout photo issued by the military on March 12, 2026. (Israel Defense Forces)
IDF troops of the 7th Armored Brigade operate in southern Lebanon, in a handout photo issued by the military on March 12, 2026. (Israel Defense Forces)

Dozens of Hezbollah operatives have been killed as ground troops conduct “targeted raids” in southern Lebanon, the military says.

Last week, troops of the 7th Armored Brigade, under the 36th Division, began an operation in the Rab al-Thalathine area, with the IDF saying it aims to locate and clear the Lebanese village of Hezbollah infrastructure and operatives.

The IDF says that during the “targeted raids,” the troops have killed dozens of Hezbollah operatives and destroyed numerous sites belonging to the terror group, including weapon depots, a command center, and observation posts.

The military says the Northern Command is meanwhile continuing preparations to receive additional troops in the coming week.

On Friday, the IDF said reinforcement would include the 98th Division with two brigade-level combat teams and additional combat engineering battalions. The Golani Brigade was also sent to the Northern Command earlier this week, and is now ready for deployment, the army says.

Most Popular
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.