IDF Releases Original Orders and Statements on 20th Anniversary of 2006 Lebanon War

On the 20th anniversary of the 2006 Lebanon War, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have published original key documents from the conflict, including the first operational order and the announcement expanding ground maneuvers to the Litani River. The war began on July 12, 2006, after a Hezbollah attack on Israel's northern border, and lasted 34 days until August 14, 2006. During the conflict, the IDF operated against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

Among the released documents is the IDF General Staff's first operational order for Operation "Just Reward," issued on July 13, 2006. This order outlined the initial difficult situation, including preparations for simultaneous operations on two fronts, Gaza and Lebanon, reports of two Israeli soldiers kidnapped in the Zar'it sector during a large Hezbollah attack, the deaths of eight soldiers and injuries to others in the western sector, intensive airstrikes in southern Lebanon, and readiness to absorb heavy Katyusha rocket fire targeting Israel's rear areas.

Also revealed is the original IDF spokesperson's announcement during the critical days of fighting, declaring the expansion of ground operations deep into Lebanon up to the Litani River. The statement explained that, following the cabinet's decision, IDF ground forces, supported by air and naval units, would operate in areas from which rockets were launched at Israel, aiming to reduce attacks on northern Israeli civilians and intensify damage to Hezbollah.