According to a report by The Times Of Israel on May 27, 2026, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a sweeping evacuation advisory urging residents across southern Lebanon to move north of the Zahrani River, warning that “all areas south of the river are considered combat zones.”
“We call on all residents of southern Lebanon to stay away from Hezbollah operatives, facilities, and combat equipment,” says military spokesman Avichay Adraee, adding that “the IDF does not intend to harm civilians.”
The military has in recent days issued several localized evacuation warnings targeting specific towns and villages in southern Lebanon. However, this latest directive marks the first broad advisory covering the entire southern region since the ceasefire, which came into effect on April 16 but has since largely unraveled.
The escalation reflects growing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, where exchanges between Israeli forces and Hezbollah have intensified. Residents in affected areas have been urged to comply with evacuation instructions and relocate northward as operations continue against Hezbollah positions.
Israeli officials maintain that the warnings are intended to minimize civilian casualties while military operations proceed against what they describe as Hezbollah infrastructure and fighters operating in the south.
The renewed evacuation order has heightened fears of widespread displacement, with many communities already affected by repeated warnings in recent weeks. Humanitarian concerns are also rising as families are forced to leave homes and seek safety amid ongoing hostilities.
The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides continuing to accuse each other of violations of the fragile ceasefire agreement. Military authorities have urged residents to remain alert for further updates as developments on the ground continue to unfold.