On April 16, Israeli airstrikes destroyed Lebanon’s Qasmiyeh Bridge, which is considered the last remaining major operational bridge crossing the Litani River in southern Lebanon.
The Qasmiyeh bridge was located near Tyre and served as the main artery connecting southern Lebanon to the rest of the country. There are four bridges that cross the Litani River, which are essential in connecting southern Lebanon to the center of the country: In addition to the Qasmiyeh, the three other bridges are the Khardali, the Qaaqaaiyeh, and the Zrarieh-Tayr Felsay. All of these bridges have been destroyed.
The destruction of these bridges effectively severs the area south of the Litani River, complicating aid efforts and limiting the movement of civilians.
Israeli military officials stated the strikes aimed to “prevent Hezbollah from transporting weapons and fighters.” The IDF and Netanyahu excuse does not seem to be truthful. Rather, it seems that Israel has severed the mostly Shia South from the rest of the country with the intent of eventually taking it over.
