Israel Initiates Limited Ground Operations Against Hezbollah in Southern Lebanon

Israeli forces have commenced targeted ground operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, escalating the ongoing conflict which also sees U.S. support for Israel. The situation follows the recent assassination of Hezbollah’s prominent leader and a warning from Israel directed at Iran.

Early on Tuesday, Israeli forces initiated what they termed “limited, localized and targeted ground raids” in southern Lebanon, primarily focusing on Hezbollah positions. This military action represents a significant escalation in Israel’s ongoing conflict with Iranian-backed groups. According to a military statement, the purpose of these operations is to dismantle the military capabilities that threaten Israeli national security from the Lebanese front. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has expressed support for Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, emphasizing the need to “dismantle attack infrastructure” along the Lebanon-Israel border. In a related development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued stern warnings directed at Iran, shortly after an airstrike in southern Beirut eliminated the leader of Hezbollah. In response to the shifting dynamics of the conflict, Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, announced that the group will appoint a new leader and persist in its resistance against Israel, marking a continued commitment to their military objectives. For context, Israel has notified the U.S. government about its limited ground operations targeting Hezbollah, with the U.S. State Department confirming this information on Monday evening. In anticipation of potential escalations, Israeli authorities have declared certain areas along the northern border as a “closed military zone,” restricting access to military forces only. Moreover, the Lebanese army is reportedly repositioning its troops away from the border in reaction to what seems to be an impending Israeli ground invasion. United Nations peacekeeping operations have been severely hampered due to intense bombardments from Israel and retaliatory rocket fire from Hezbollah.

The recent military operations in southern Lebanon by Israel come amidst heightened tensions following the killing of a prominent Hezbollah leader in an Israeli airstrike. This situation is exacerbated by the ongoing geopolitical strife between Israel and Iran, which supports Hezbollah as part of its broader regional strategy. The conflict, which has escalated in recent months, has drawn in various actors, including the United States, which is closely monitoring developments and providing support to Israel.

In summary, Israel’s initiation of ground operations in southern Lebanon marks a critical juncture in its long-lasting conflict with Hezbollah. With backing from the U.S. and the recent elevation of hostilities, the implications for the region’s stability are significant. The responses from both Hezbollah and the Lebanese military suggest that this conflict may further intensify in the coming days, leading to potential repercussions beyond the immediate battlefield.

Original Source: www.france24.com