The Israel-Lebanon border, a historically volatile area, has experienced unprecedented levels of violence and destruction since the outbreak of recent hostilities. Satellite images, radar data, and military activity records reveal a dire situation: entire communities displaced, thousands of buildings damaged, and extensive tracts of land scorched. Although neither side has engaged in full-scale war, the near-daily attacks have left both Israeli and Lebanese towns in ruins and their populations in fear.
Context of the Conflict
The Initial Outbreak
The current wave of violence began when Hezbollah launched rockets at Israeli positions, citing solidarity with Palestinians in the wake of the Israel-Gaza war that ignited following an unprecedented attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. This conflict rapidly escalated, with intense cross-border exchanges leading to widespread devastation.
Cross-Border Attacks
From October 8, 2023, to July 5, 2024, data shows a staggering 7,491 cross-border attacks between Israel and Hezbollah. Israel has conducted roughly five times as many attacks as Hezbollah during this period. These frequent exchanges have had severe humanitarian and infrastructural consequences on both sides of the border.
Impact on Lebanon
Displacement and Casualties
The United Nations reports that more than 90,000 people in Lebanon have been forced from their homes due to the ongoing conflict. Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of around 100 civilians and 366 Hezbollah fighters. The scale of displacement and casualties highlights the severe impact of the conflict on Lebanese communities.
Damage to Southern Lebanon
Analysis reveals that more than 60% of border communities in southern Lebanon have suffered damage from Israeli air and artillery strikes. As of July 10, over 3,200 buildings are estimated to have been affected. The towns of Aita el Shaab, Kfar Kila, and Blida are among the worst-hit areas. Aita el Shaab, in particular, has faced extensive damage, with at least 299 attacks recorded since October 2023.
The mayor of Aita el Shaab, Majed Tehini, described the devastation as akin to an earthquake. He reported that the infrastructure, including the electrical grid and water supply system, has been severely impacted. Many buildings are now uninhabitable, with some reduced to rubble. Despite having seen similar destruction during the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, Tehini notes that the current destruction is far greater.
Damage in Kfar Kila and Blida
Kfar Kila has been struck over 200 times, with significant damage to supermarkets and service shops. Blida has experienced at least 130 attacks, affecting several buildings and a pharmacy. The damage is concentrated in central areas where essential services and facilities are located.
Impact on Israel
Destruction in Northern Israel
On the Israeli side, more than 1,000 buildings have been damaged since the conflict began. The destruction extends beyond structures to significant land damage, particularly from wildfires sparked by cross-border attacks. The extent of land damage has been severe, with about 55 square kilometers in Israel and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights affected, compared to 40 square kilometers in Lebanon.
Wildfires and Environmental Damage
Data from satellite imagery reveals extensive wildfires caused by unguided rockets fired by Hezbollah. These fires have severely impacted agricultural land, farmland, and forests in northern Israel. The use of unguided weapons has resulted in widespread damage to areas not immediately adjacent to the border. The Iron Dome anti-missile system, which intercepts threats to populated areas, does not always intercept missiles that are predicted to land in open spaces, resulting in significant environmental damage.
Impact on Local Communities
In the settlement of Katzrin in the Golan Heights, a large area of land was burned by rocket fire, surpassing the size of the settlement itself. Tzahi Gabay, a farmer from Kfar Yuval near the border, has witnessed the devastation firsthand. Fearing further attacks, many residents have evacuated, leaving behind their farmland and businesses. Gabay, who remains in the area, has had to fight fires and manage the damage to his fields and properties.
Hezbollah’s Strategy and Responses
Targeting and Tactical Approaches
Hezbollah’s attacks have been aimed at creating chaos and insecurity among the Israeli population. The group’s use of unguided rockets has resulted in extensive damage to both civilian and agricultural areas. The intention behind these attacks appears to be to pressure the Israeli government and disrupt daily life.
Hezbollah’s Public Statements
Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, has vowed to continue targeting Israeli settlements and warned that Israeli tanks would be destroyed if they crossed into Lebanon. He has also stated that his organization would suspend attacks if a ceasefire is reached between Israel and Hamas.
Use of White Phosphorus
Controversy Over Chemical Weapons
There have been allegations that Israel used white phosphorus munitions in southern Lebanon. White phosphorus, known for its ability to ignite on contact with oxygen and cause severe burns, has been reported to have been used in populated areas. Human Rights Watch has verified the use of white phosphorus in several southern Lebanese towns, raising concerns about the legality and humanitarian impact of such tactics.
Israeli Defense Claims
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) defend their use of white phosphorus, claiming it is employed to create smokescreens and is lawful under international law. The IDF states that white phosphorus shells are not used in densely populated areas except under specific conditions.
Prospects for Future Escalation
Potential for All-Out War
The ongoing intensity of hostilities raises concerns about the possibility of an all-out war, which could potentially involve Iran in defense of Hezbollah. Despite the high level of violence, there is a cautious optimism that both Israel and Hezbollah are trying to avoid a full-scale conflict.
Efforts to Avoid Further Escalation
Experts believe that both sides are carefully calibrating their actions to prevent miscalculations and further escalation. The current strategy appears to be focused on avoiding a broader confrontation while managing the immediate impacts of the conflict.
Conclusion
The Israel-Lebanon border has become a region of profound destruction and fear. The ongoing violence has resulted in significant humanitarian and environmental damage on both sides, with communities suffering widespread displacement and loss. The conflict’s complexity is reflected in the tactical approaches of both Hezbollah and Israel, and the broader implications of this violence are still unfolding. As the situation evolves, the international community continues to watch for signs of de-escalation and potential pathways to peace.
