According to a senior U.S. official, Israel is preparing to launch a 'limited' ground invasion into southern Lebanon in the near future. The operation is expected to be smaller in scale and shorter in duration compared to Israel's 2006 campaign against Hezbollah.
Israel's top commander has hinted at the readiness of troops for this campaign, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the return of Israel's northern communities. The recent killing of Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, has been described as a significant step towards this goal.
While no official order for a ground invasion has been issued, Israel has conducted aerial campaigns and targeted strikes in southern Lebanon and Beirut. Special forces have reportedly carried out small raids in southern Lebanon through tunnels seized from Hezbollah during Operation Northern Shield in 2018.
These targeted raids aim to gather intelligence on Hezbollah and disrupt the group's ability to attack Israel. The increased attacks against Hezbollah are part of efforts to secure the safe return of thousands of residents who fled the northern border out of fear of potential attacks.
As tensions escalate in the region, the timeline for the residents' return remains uncertain. Israeli officials are committed to using all necessary means, including air, sea, and land forces, to achieve the mission of ensuring the safe return of Israel's northern communities.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has expressed confidence in the troops' ability to carry out their missions successfully, emphasizing the importance of the operation for the security and well-being of Israeli citizens.
