Israeli forces conducted approximately 15 airstrikes across southern Lebanon and the Bekaa region on October 16th, 2025, between 8:36 PM and 11:36 PM UTC, according to a statement translated from Arabic. The timing and scale of these strikes follow earlier reported Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon earlier in the day. The translated statement, posted on X by an account identified as masss11, declared "The south and the Bekaa are permissible," indicating a broad authorization for strikes in these areas. The author also commented on the broader regional conflict, referencing "Gaza part 2" and congratulating "Iran, the Axis and their allies for entering into a war over Sinwar timing," suggesting a coordinated but potentially ill-prepared engagement by these groups. Earlier in the day, between 6:08 PM and 9:08 PM UTC, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated they targeted Hezbollah infrastructure, including quarries and plants used for military reconstruction, in southern Lebanon. The IDF cited these actions as necessary to prevent Hezbollah's military rebuilding and arsenal expansion, with specific mention of targeting areas like the Sinai Farm and the "Green Without Borders" organization for their alleged roles in concealing Hezbollah activity. The Lebanese President Joseph Aoun had condemned the earlier attacks, labeling them a violation of Resolution 1701 and a deliberate attempt to hinder economic rehabilitation.
