Israel Declares New Military Zones Near Lebanon

On day 372 of the ongoing conflict, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin expressed concern to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant regarding Israeli strikes on UN peacekeeping positions in Lebanon, which resulted in the deaths of two Lebanese soldiers. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported approximately 40 rocket launches from northern Israel, with some intercepted. In response to escalating tensions, Israel's government is expected to extend a broadcasting ban on Al Jazeera and Al Mayadeen channels. Additionally, the IDF has declared five new regions in northern Israel as closed military zones following assessments of the situation, restricting access to areas that include Zarit, Shomera, Shtula, Netua, and Even Menachem. These developments come amid a backdrop of Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon and localized ground operations against the group. The situation remains fluid as military actions and diplomatic concerns continue to unfold.