Israel Launches Ground Offensive in Southern Lebanon: Military Urges Border Communities to Evacuate

Israel Launches Ground Offensive

Israel Launches Ground Offensive in Southern Lebanon Amid Escalating Tensions

On Tuesday, the Israeli military issued urgent evacuation warnings for nearly two dozen Lebanese communities along the border, following a limited ground incursion aimed at Hezbollah militants. While Hezbollah denies that Israeli troops have entered Lebanese territory, it declared its readiness to confront any incursions.

The Israeli military advised residents to move north of the Awali River, approximately 60 kilometers from the border, signaling a potential deepening of military operations. The area has already seen a significant decline in population due to ongoing skirmishes between the two sides.

Hezbollah has responded by launching rockets at Israeli targets, with a spokesman claiming the missile strikes are just the beginning of their retaliation. Israeli artillery and airstrikes have intensified, targeting Hezbollah positions and resulting in casualties.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari of the Israeli military described the operation as "localized ground raids," aimed at securing northern Israel. Tensions have escalated dramatically since the onset of the war in Gaza, with fears of a wider conflict involving regional powers.

The situation remains precarious, with Lebanon's Prime Minister expressing willingness to deploy the army if a cease-fire is achieved, though control over Hezbollah complicates this potential action. European nations are beginning to evacuate citizens amid the increasing instability, highlighting the urgent need for de-escalation in the region.

Israel Launches Ground Offensive in Southern Lebanon: Military Urges Border Communities to Evacuate