Israel has informed the US that it is gearing up to launch a ‘limited ground incursion’ into Lebanon in the near future, US officials have disclosed. The news of this imminent ground invasion, described as a ‘limited incursion’, emerged late in the afternoon with a US official indicating that Israel troop positions suggest the move could happen very soon.
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant addressed troops stationed on the border with Lebanon, instructing them to be prepared for an attack ‘from the air, from the sea and from the land’ to prevent Iran-backed Hezbollah from continuing to launch attacks into northern Israeli territories. Gallant emphasised the importance of neutralising Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah and ensuring the safety of residents in the northern regions.
As tensions escalate, fears of an Israeli invasion of Lebanon have mounted. Israeli forces, including the 188th brigade, are stationed in the northern territories, awaiting orders to invade. Special forces units have already initiated raids into southern Lebanon, conducting small-scale attacks in Hezbollah tunnels near the border. Former senior military officials suggest that these preliminary operations could pave the way for a full-scale invasion.
Recent Israeli airstrikes have targeted militant strongholds in Lebanon, resulting in casualties and destruction. The conflict has widened, with Israel engaging in military actions across various regions, including the Palestinian territories of Gaza, occupied West Bank, Yemen, Iraq, Syria, and within Israel itself. There are concerns that the involvement of the United States and Iran in the conflict could further escalate the situation.
Hezbollah has vowed to resist any potential Israeli invasion, asserting readiness for a ground confrontation. The Iranian foreign ministry condemned Israel’s actions as “criminal” and warned of repercussions. British opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer has called for a ceasefire while reiterating support for Israel’s right to self-defence.
In response to the escalating tensions, Hamas has also been involved in conflicts, with reports of casualties on both sides. The situation remains fluid, with the risk of a wider regional conflict looming large. As developments unfold, the international community closely watches the volatile situation in the Middle East.