The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have begun issuing emergency mobilization orders to reservists to expand military operations beyond the so-called "yellow line," a buffer zone unilaterally established by Israel along its border with southern Lebanon, Israeli media reported on Tuesday.
Under the order, soldiers who were recently discharged have been instructed to report for duty immediately and return to active reserve status.
In a separate development, the IDF issued an urgent evacuation warning to residents of the southern Lebanese city of Nabatieh, urging them to leave "immediately" ahead of planned strikes.
Around noon on Tuesday, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee wrote on the social media platform X that all residents of Nabatieh must move north of the Zahrani River.
"Anyone present near Hezbollah elements, their facilities, and their combat means endangers their lives," Adraee wrote.
A day earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he has ordered the military "to press the gas pedal even harder," and that Israel will "crush" Hezbollah.
The IDF said on Tuesday that it had carried out more than 100 strikes overnight in the Beqaa Valley and across southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah weapon storage facilities, command centers, observation posts, and other infrastructure sites.
A ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect in April. Despite the truce, Israel has continued to carry out near-daily strikes in Lebanon, while Hezbollah has launched attacks on Israeli military positions.
Israel mobilizes reserves amid efforts to expand military operations in Lebanon
Competitive cyclists steered their way around the spectacular natural scenery of Lake Sayram in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region as the 18th edition of the Tour of Sayram concluded on Monday, with a home favorite fending off international rivals to take the title.
The closing 90-kilometer stage, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and competitive demand, unfolds at an average altitude exceeding 2,000 meters, with challenging winds sweeping along the shoreline of Lake Sayram in the Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture.
The finale is often dubbed the "most beautiful stage" as the event saves its best for last, with a course that inspires riders to maintain impressive speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour against a stunning backdrop.
After a hard-fought race, home favorite Hahailisi Habudeli clinched both the final stage and the prestigious overall individual title, securing the yellow jersey and fulfilling his dream to become champion.
"I only planned to follow the pack and keep my second place. But I broke away and won the stage. Winning the overall title was my dream, and today it came true. The Tour of Sayram Lake is the most beautiful race with mountains, the lake, snow, and grasslands all together. Absolutely gorgeous," said Habudeli.
The local hero was able to hold his nerve against some of international talent on display, with Russia's Mikhail Mukhin finishing in second place, and Uladzislau Yarash of Belarus claiming third.
After six grueling stages covering an overall distance of over 500 kilometers, Zachary Patterson of New Zealand earned the green jersey, which is awarded to the best sprinter, showcasing his prowess throughout the competition.
Originally a local event, the Tour of Sayram has blossomed into a premier international sports showcase, attracting cyclists from around the globe. Local officials say the tour aims to spotlight the natural beauty, cultural richness, and openness of Xinjiang to the world.
"Since 2007, the Tour of Sayram Lake has grown over 18 years into a world-class event. We will continue to use the race as a platform to build our brand, amplify its positive impact, and welcome more visitors to Sayram Lake," said Na Narengaowa, director of the Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture Bureau of Culture, Sports, Radio, TV and Tourism.
Competitive cyclists steer around stunning scenery of Lake Sayram in Xinjiang
Competitive cyclists steer around stunning scenery of Lake Sayram in Xinjiang
