JERUSALEM/BEIRUT, October 22, 2023 (Reuters) - The Israeli government has announced an expansion of planned evacuations for communities along its northern front with Lebanon as clashes between Israeli forces and fighters from Hezbollah intensify. These clashes have seen an increase in frequency since the outbreak of the war in Gaza over two weeks ago.

Hezbollah and Israel have been engaged in cross-border skirmishes following a deadly shock attack carried out by Palestinian group Hamas on October 7. In response, Israel launched a series of intense air strikes on Gaza, resulting in an elevated level of violence between the two sides.

On Sunday, Hezbollah reported the deaths of six fighters, bringing the total number of its members killed since October 7 to 26. This escalation marks the most significant surge in violence along the border since the 2006 war between Israel and the Iran-backed group.

Lebanese security sources have stated that 11 fighters from Palestinian groups in Lebanon, aligned with Hezbollah, have also lost their lives in the border area. In addition, four civilians have been killed.

According to Israeli military reports, five soldiers and one civilian have been killed on Israel's side of the border.

While Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has not yet addressed the situation publicly, Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah mentioned that Nasrallah is closely monitoring the developments and providing guidance to commanders on the ground.

The Israeli military has confirmed that it conducted strikes overnight on several Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. Among the targets was a compound from which a missile had been fired at an Israeli drone. However, specific locations were not disclosed.

The military further reported that it targeted three groups of fighters preparing to launch anti-armour missiles across the border. Additionally, an approaching drone from Lebanon was shot down by Israeli forces.

Hezbollah-run TV channel Al-Manar has reported Israeli bombardments in areas including Aalma Shaab, Aitaroun, and the Hula district, which lies opposite Israel's Kiryat Shmona.

Previously, sources had suggested that Hezbollah's attacks were intended to keep the Israeli army occupied without provoking a full-scale war. Israel has reiterated its lack of interest in engaging in a large-scale conflict and has expressed the importance of maintaining the status quo if Hezbollah exercises restraint.

The escalating tensions in the region have raised concerns about the potential risk of a wider conflict. At the same time, Israel continues to make preparations for an anticipated land incursion into Gaza.

As the clashes between Israel and Hezbollah intensify on the Lebanon border, the expansion of evacuations has become crucial in ensuring the safety of communities in the affected area. The international community remains watchful, hoping for a de-escalation of the situation to prevent further violence and loss of life.