DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 3, 2026 (AP) — The Israeli military said soldiers are “operating in southern Lebanon” as it continues strikes against Hezbollah.

In a statement, it said the troops are positioned at several points near the border in what it described as a “forward defense posture” as it battles Hezbollah militants.

It said the deployment is part of a broader effort to increase security for residents in northern Israel near the border with Lebanon. It has also beefed up troops and air defenses in the area.

The army said there are no plans to evacuate Israeli residents of border areas.