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IDF deploys 162nd Division to south Lebanon — 5 divisions now in theater, 6th elite 98th being prepared

·Southern Lebanon (western sector)

The IDF deployed the 162nd Division into western south Lebanon. IDF Northern Command chief Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo announced 750+ Hezbollah killed since fighting escalated, with the ground operation expanding the security zone northward. 'We have eliminated more than 750 terrorists, destroyed infrastructure throughout Lebanon, and continue deep strikes against Hezbollah's centers of gravity.' Five IDF divisions now in theater; elite 98th being prepared as sixth.

The IDF on 26 March 2026 confirmed the 162nd Division began a targeted ground operation in the western sector of southern Lebanon several days prior. Ahead of the advance, the IDF carried out massive airstrikes and artillery shelling. The division has killed approximately 20 Hezbollah operatives. The operation aims to expand the security zone. Five IDF divisions are now deployed to southern Lebanon: 146th (defensively, western sector), 91st and 36th (raids, eastern sector), 210th (Mount Dov area), and 162nd (western sector raid). A sixth division — the elite 98th of paratroopers and commando units — is being prepared for deployment. Defense Minister Israel Katz said this week the IDF would control a security zone in southern Lebanon up to the Litani River until the Hezbollah threat is removed.
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Actor responses

Israel Defense ForcesOPPOSINGMILITARY

IDF confirms 162nd Division raid in western south Lebanon after massive airstrikes/artillery prep. Five divisions now in theater. Elite 98th (paratroopers/commandos) being prepared. Katz: IDF will control security zone up to Litani until Hezbollah threat removed.

HezbollahOPPOSINGMILITARY

Hezbollah has not commented on the 162nd Division deployment. The group continues rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel, including the fatal Nahariya strike, as five IDF divisions press into southern Lebanon.

Sources

T1IDF Statement / Times of Israel Liveblog9% reliability