We go to the part of southern Lebanon that Israel now controls
Summary
NPR's Jana Rafaf reports from Israeli-controlled southern Lebanon, revealing a devastated landscape of demolished homes and burned fields where residents remain barred from returning. Accompanied by UN peacekeepers, she documents Israel's continued seizure of territory and destruction of villages despite a ceasefire, noting the military's intent to prevent civilian return. The episode also highlights ongoing clashes with Hezbollah and the impending end of the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission, which has struggled to document violations as Israel entrenches its presence.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Israel-Hezbollah conflict and Gaza context
Ground invasion, buffer zone, and civilian displacement
NPR access to Israeli-controlled Lebanon via UN peacekeepers
Mission details: Scouting roads with Finnish and French staff
Visual evidence of occupation: Flags, signs, and vehicles
Devastated landscape and unrecognizable border area
Official rationale for destruction and preventing return
Ongoing fighting and recent casualties in contested areas
Peacekeepers documenting drone activity and explosions
UNIFIL mission status and future of the peacekeeping force
Deputy commander report on Israeli entrenchment
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