Southern Lebanon witnesses widespread displacement due to Israeli strikes after Netanyahu’s escalation order

A view of heavy traffic as displaced people return to their homes following the implementation of a 10-day temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, in the southern city of Sidon, Lebanon on April 17, 2026. [Houssam Shbaro - Anadolu Agency]

Southern Lebanon witnessed widespread displacement on Sunday following extensive Israeli airstrikes, a day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a military escalation against the country, Anadolu reports. Lebanon’s state news agency NNA reported that Israeli strikes targeted the towns of Zawtar, Maidafoun, and Yohmor al-Shaqif, while artillery shelling hit areas between Deir Seryan and Yohmor. Israeli warplanes also carried out raids on the outskirts of Shaaitiyeh, while another strike hit a house in the town of Qalileh in the Tyre district. The news agency added that Israeli forces carried out a large-scale demolition drive in the town of Khiam, alongside powerful explosions reported in the town of Taybeh. Israeli fighter jets were also seen flying over the capital, Beirut, according […]