Israeli forces have conducted extensive airstrikes, artillery fire, and limited advances around Nabatieh in southern Lebanon since May 2026, reaching outskirts and positions such as Beaufort Castle while targeting Hezbollah infrastructure near Ali al-Taher ridge and Nabatieh al-Fawqa. Operations intensified amid efforts to expand a buffer zone north of the Litani River, but ground entry into the city itself has been constrained by Hezbollah resistance, tunnel networks, and multiple ceasefires or framework agreements brokered with U.S. involvement in June 2026. Violations, including drone and artillery strikes, have continued into late August and early September 2026, alongside demolitions and displacement orders, though Lebanese army patrols and diplomatic talks have periodically limited escalation. Trader assessments hinge on whether Israeli ground maneuvers breach remaining defenses before any new truce solidifies or international pressure enforces withdrawal.