TEHRAN- Turkey's president weighed in on the latest developments in the region, saying Israel's strikes go beyond targeting Iran—and that the Israeli leader is also pushing ahead with expansionist plans to occupy Lebanon. Meanwhile, large-scale military developments continue to unfold across the region.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered sharp criticism of Israeli policy, accusing Benjamin Netanyahu of not only attacking Iran but also moving forward with plans to seize Lebanese territory.

His remarks come as wide-ranging military operations are underway in the region.

On the battlefield, Hezbollah said it struck two Israeli Merkava tanks with guided missiles in southern Lebanon.

At the same timee, Lebanese military sources told Al Jazeera that Israeli army has advanced into most frontline towns in South Lebanon and is seeking to push further toward second-line towns in the central and eastern sectors.

The Lebanese army, meanwhile, has pulled back from some positions and is regrouping in areas where there's no direct contact with Israeli troops.