Israeli army chief visits troops in south Lebanon, vows to up strikes

Israel's military chief Eyal Zamir visited troops in southern Lebanon on Sunday and pledged to intensify strikes against Hezbollah.

"The IDF (army) is striking Hezbollah ... with determination, extensively, and across multiple fronts," Zamir said during a visit to Ras el-Bayada area in southern Lebanon, according to a statement issued by the military.

"Over 1,000 Hezbollah terrorists have been eliminated, and that number will continue to rise. The damage to Hezbollah will intensify," he added.

Zamir said the military was working to "suppress and reduce high-trajectory fire" coming from Hezbollah.

"This will take time but we will continue to significantly degrade their capabilities," he said, adding that disarming Hezbollah continues to be Israel's "top-tier goal."

"The IDF is engaging Hezbollah in precise operations in order to strengthen defense and push the threat away from northern communities. We will remain on this line as long as required," Zamir added.

He also said that the "ultimate" goal of disarming Hezbollah requires action from both the army and the "political echelon."