Israel has initiated a ground invasion in southern Lebanon, describing the military action as “limited, localized, and targeted” against the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced that the operation aims to dismantle Hezbollah’s infrastructure, which they claim poses an “immediate threat” to Israeli communities in the north.
In response to the escalating conflict, Lebanese civilians have been warned against traveling south across the Litani River, approximately 20 miles from the Israel-Lebanon border. Authorities have advised residents in around 25 villages to evacuate northward. Reports indicate that around one million people have been displaced across Lebanon since Israeli airstrikes began last month.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant previously signaled the possibility of a ground operation, instructing troops near the border to prepare for military action “from the air, sea, and land.” On Tuesday, the IDF confirmed the deployment of ground forces across the border after a significant buildup of military assets in northern Israel.
The Lebanese army has begun withdrawing its forces stationed on the southern border to a distance of at least 5 kilometers (3 miles) north, according to a security source. Prime Minister Najib Mikati described the current situation as “one of the most dangerous phases” in Lebanon’s history and issued an urgent call for international aid to support the displaced population.
Hezbollah has asserted that its fighters are ready for direct confrontation with Israeli forces, although there have reportedly been no direct clashes confirmed as of yet. The group claimed responsibility for firing at the Mossad headquarters in Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes continue in Lebanon, targeting what the IDF described as Hezbollah military sites.
Gallant has assured Israeli troops that all necessary means will be employed to ensure the safe return of displaced Israeli citizens. He emphasized that the elimination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in a recent airstrike is a critical step, although he cautioned that further actions are needed.
As fighting escalates, airstrikes have hit Hezbollah strongholds in southern Beirut, igniting explosions that lit up the night sky. Reports also indicate heavy shelling in border towns and attacks on Palestinian refugee camps, raising concerns about civilian casualties.
Since the conflict intensified on October 8, 2023, following a Hamas attack on Israel, more than 1,000 people have reportedly died in Lebanon, with calls from international leaders for a ceasefire growing louder. U.S. President Joe Biden and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy have both expressed the need for immediate de-escalation and a resolution to the ongoing crisis, highlighting the urgent necessity for a political solution to the violence.
