The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claim the operation targets Hezbollah's infrastructure, which they consider an immediate threat to northern Israel. An Israeli official stated that ground forces only advanced a short distance into Lebanon, while Hezbollah denies their presence, though they claim to be ready for confrontation. Hezbollah has also asserted it fired at Mossad headquarters in Tel Aviv.
Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes continue across Lebanon. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant previously signaled readiness for a ground operation, confirming the use of air, sea, and land forces against Hezbollah. Following a military build-up, the IDF announced it had crossed the border into Lebanon.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati warned that Lebanon faces one of its most dangerous periods, with one million displaced since the start of Israeli airstrikes. The Lebanese army has reportedly withdrawn forces from the southern border.
The IDF has urged residents of southern Lebanon to evacuate, stating that any home used for Hezbollah's military purposes would be targeted. Gallant further emphasized that Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah's death was significant but not the final goal.
The conflict, which began with Hezbollah's rocket attacks in solidarity with Hamas in Gaza, has escalated since October 2023, leading to significant losses for Hezbollah. The group has suffered heavy casualties, including its leader Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut.
