Fighting between Israel and Lebanon resumed on March 2, 2026, after Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel, saying it was retaliating for the killing of Iran’s former Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in strikes carried out by Israel and the United States.
Israel responded by launching a military campaign against Hezbollah, carrying out both airstrikes and ground operations targeting the group and its fighters.
Israeli forces advanced into southern Lebanon and took control of several areas near the border.
Speaking about the situation, Netanyahu said some Christians in southern Lebanon had appealed to Israel for protection.
“Some Christians in Lebanon have asked for the areas where they live to be annexed to Israel because we are protecting them from Hezbollah. Hezbollah wants to kill them, and we protect Christians wherever we can,” Netanyahu said.
Despite these claims, Christians in southern Lebanon have also been affected by Israeli military operations since the conflict began.
Many residents remained in their homes despite Israeli evacuation orders, with many refusing to abandon their homes and land.
Israeli forces have, however, urged Christian residents not to shelter strangers, arguing that Hezbollah fighters could attempt to hide among civilians.
Netanyahu stressed that Israeli forces would continue operating in southern Lebanon to safeguard Israeli communities in the country’s north and ensure the security of its citizens.
Since Israel launched its military campaign against Hezbollah, more than 4,300 people have been killed, while over 12,000 others have been injured.
