The Israeli military commenced limited ground operations in southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, amid rising tensions following the death of the group’s leader. U.S. officials support these efforts, emphasizing the importance of neutralizing threats along the border. The situation remains volatile with Lebanon’s army repositioning its forces and UN peacekeepers unable to conduct their patrols due to intensified hostilities.
Early Tuesday, the Israeli military announced the initiation of targeted ground operations in southern Lebanon, focusing on Hezbollah positions. This development marks a significant escalation in Israel’s ongoing year-long conflict with Iran-backed adversaries. The military described these operations as ‘limited, localized, and targeted ground raids.’ U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin extended support to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, underscoring the importance of dismantling attack infrastructure along the Lebanon-Israel border. In a related context, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cautioned Iran following airstrikes near Beirut that resulted in the death of the Lebanese Hezbollah leader, Hassan Nasrallah. In the wake of these tensions, Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, declared the group’s intention to appoint a new leader and persist in their struggle against Israel. Further developments included a communication from Israel to the United States, confirming the commencement of limited ground operations in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, as reported by the U.S. State Department. Israeli authorities have also designated three communities along their northern border as a ‘closed military zone,’ thereby restricting access solely to military personnel. In response to the situation, the Lebanese army is repositioning and regrouping its forces away from the border, as confirmed by a Lebanese military official. Meanwhile, United Nations peacekeepers in Lebanon have faced operational challenges, being unable to patrol due to the heightened conflict resulting from Israeli airstrikes and Hezbollah rocket assaults on Israel.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has been ongoing, rooted in long-standing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militant group based in Lebanon, has historically engaged in military confrontations with Israel. The current phase of conflict has escalated dramatically following significant events, including airstrikes that have targeted key Hezbollah figures, prompting retaliatory threats and military maneuvers. This latest Israeli operation aims to weaken Hezbollah’s military capabilities and address the existential threats posed by the group’s armed activities along the border.
The recent initiation of Israeli ground operations in southern Lebanon represents a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah. With support from the United States and escalating military actions, both sides appear poised for intensified confrontations. The developments underline the precarious security situation in the region and highlight the broader implications for regional stability.
Original Source: www.france24.com
