BEIRUT, Lebanon, Aug 12, SPA -- Israeli commando troops were engaged in fierce battles with Hezbollah fighters in an area southwest of Marjayoun Saturday, Lebanese security officials said. An Israeli commando unit landed at dawn in El-Ghandourieh, in a valley between the towns of Nabatiyeh, Tyre and Taibeh, the officials said. Heavy clashes raged there all morning, they were quoted as saying by the Associated Press. It was unclear whether the commandos landed by helicopter or traveled by land from areas farther east. El-Ghandourieh is about 12 kilometers (7 miles) from the Israeli border. The area overlooks the Litani River, and is strategicground that separates the eastern sector from the centralsector of south Lebanon. Lebanon's National News Agency said fierce clashes were under way between Hezbollah fighters and Israeli commandos on the edge of El-Ghandourieh, while the village and surrounding areas were being pounded by Israeli missiles from warplanes. El-Ghandourieh is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) west of the town of Marjayoun, which Israeli troops tookon Thursday. Israel said Saturday it was pressing ahead with itsmilitary offensive in south Lebanon until the IsraeliCabinet approves an emerging Mideast cease-fire dealapproved unanimously by the U.N. Security Council.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/382326