Gate News Report, March 24 — According to The New York Times, Israel’s Defense Minister Gantz announced on Tuesday (March 25) that the military plans to expand its control in southern Lebanon, indicating that Israel is intensifying its ground offensive against Hezbollah. Gantz stated that Israel will retain control over the area south of the Litani River. The river, which is only a few miles from the Israel-Lebanon border at its narrowest point and 15 to 20 miles at its farthest, has long served as the geographical boundary in conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah. It is unclear whether Israel will deploy troops across the entire area or rely on the air force to maintain dominance over certain regions. The statement also implied that, as President Trump attempts to negotiate with Iran to end regional conflicts, Israel is laying the groundwork for a long-term presence in large parts of Lebanon.