The BBC gained rare access to the part of southern Lebanon under Israeli occupation as part of a humanitarian convoy by the Order of Malta distributing aid to Christian villages isolated by the war.
The mission occurred on Thursday, one day before a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah was announced. The team observed an Israeli military presence but was restricted from filming most of the journey.
Israel stated it has no intention of withdrawing its troops from Lebanon and plans to establish a security zone along the border, free of Hezbollah, to protect its northern communities from rocket and drone attacks.
Destruction in the Occupied Area
In the occupied areas, predominantly Shia villages have been completely destroyed by Israeli airstrikes or demolitions. Human rights groups have stated that some of these actions amount to the deliberate destruction of civilian infrastructure, which could constitute a war crime.
"Some of these actions amount to the deliberate destruction of civilian infrastructure, which could constitute a war crime."
— Human rights groups
Key Context:
- Access: The BBC traveled as part of a rare humanitarian convoy.
- Ceasefire Timing: The visit occurred just before the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire was announced.
- Military Restrictions: The team was barred from filming most of the journey.
- Civilian Impact: Christian villages are isolated; Shia villages are largely destroyed.