The IDF is preparing for a possible offensive against Hezbollah in the southern Lebanon city of Nabatieh, a major stronghold of the terror group, an Israeli military official said Thursday.

The IDF’s 36th Division has advanced deeper into southern Lebanon in recent days and is currently operating near Arnoun, a village located a few kilometers from Nabatieh, according to the military.

The division carried out covert operations near the Litani River before the advance, including constructing a new bridge across the waterway in an area Hezbollah was not monitoring, the official said. After the bridge was completed, armored forces crossed and moved north quickly without being detected.

The official said the division’s next steps would depend on decisions by Israeli leadership. The forces could continue advancing toward Nabatieh or move westward to keep targeting Hezbollah positions along the Litani River.

The purpose of either operation would be to further damage Hezbollah’s capabilities, the official said.

The developments come as fighting continues across multiple fronts, with regional tensions rising amid the war with Iran.

A Times of Israel reporter described the toll of the conflict in Israel, writing about visiting communities impacted by missile strikes, including Arad and Dimona, where nearly 200 people were injured.

The reporter met Shilgit, who runs an after-school program for underprivileged youth, outside her damaged center. She said it was a miracle no children were harmed and described how the community had united following the attack.

The reporter said documenting stories of resilience remains a priority, but added that continued coverage depends on public support.