Israel Escalates Middle East Conflict with Ground Raids into Lebanon, Targets Hezbollah Command

Israel has escalated its conflict with Hezbollah by launching ground operations inside Lebanon, marking a significant turning point after two weeks of intense airstrikes on Hezbollah’s command centres and weapons storage facilities. The Israeli military confirmed that these operations, which began on Monday night, involved paratroopers and commandos from the elite 98th division. This division

Israel has escalated its conflict with Hezbollah by launching ground operations inside Lebanon, marking a significant turning point after two weeks of intense airstrikes on Hezbollah’s command centres and weapons storage facilities. The Israeli military confirmed that these operations, which began on Monday night, involved paratroopers and commandos from the elite 98th division. This division had been deployed to Israel’s northern front two weeks ago, having previously been engaged in combat operations in Gaza.

According to the Israeli military, the ground raids are focused on Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon, specifically targeting villages considered an “immediate threat” to Israeli communities in northern Israel. The operations have included localised ground incursions, supported by air force and artillery bombardments. The aim is to dismantle Hezbollah’s ability to launch attacks on Israeli territory and weaken its command structure.

Local sources in Lebanon, including a Lebanese security official, confirmed that Israeli units crossed into Lebanon for reconnaissance and probing operations, although the Lebanese army has not officially confirmed or denied

the movement. Residents of the Lebanese border town of Aita al-Shaab reported hearing heavy shelling, accompanied by the sound of helicopters and drones. Over the border town of Rmeish, flares were launched repeatedly, illuminating the night sky and indicating heightened military activity.