IDF advances in south Lebanon, nears Bint Jbeil

The Israeli Defense Forces are continuing ground operations in southern Lebanon, with reports indicating they are on the verge of capturing the key town of Bint Jbeil. Over the last 48 hours, Israeli troops advanced west of the Jabal Balat base, entering the villages of Marwahin, Umm Touteh, Boustane, and Yarine, causing significant destruction as part of a plan for a permanent occupation and an 8 km buffer zone. In Khiam, the IDF has made minor advances in the north of the town, where fighting with Hezbollah continues. These operations are described as the latest Israeli advances prior to the implementation of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire.