The Israeli army on Wednesday ordered the evacuation of six villages in southern Lebanon’s Tyre district ahead of planned attacks it claimed were targeting Hezbollah positions.

Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee issued warnings to residents of Maachouk, Yanouh, Burj El-Shemali, Hlousiyeh El-Faouqa, Debaal, and Abbasiyeh, urging them to leave their homes immediately and move at least 1,000 meters away toward open areas.

Adraee said the Israeli military would strike the areas “with force,” alleging the presence of Hezbollah fighters, facilities, and military equipment.

The escalation comes amid continued violations of the ceasefire agreement that has been in effect from April 17 through May 17.

Since March 2, Israel has carried out an expanded military campaign in Lebanon that, according to official Lebanese figures, has left thousands dead and wounded and displaced more than 1.6 million people.

Israel also continues to occupy areas in southern Lebanon, some for decades, while its forces advanced nearly 10 kilometers beyond the southern border during the latest conflict.