Israeli Forces Conduct Ground Operation in Southern Lebanon Amidst Heightened Tensions

Israeli forces have initiated a ground operation in southern Lebanon, citing the need to defend northern Israeli towns from potential threats. The move comes amidst escalating regional tensions and ongoing clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah.

The Israeli military announced that troops from the 91st Division are currently operating inside Lebanese territory, positioning themselves at strategic locations. According to the Israeli military, this deployment is intended to create an additional security layer for residents in northern Israel by disrupting Hezbollah infrastructure and preventing infiltration attempts.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has approved the military's advancement and control of additional strategic areas in Lebanon, claiming it is necessary to prevent attacks on Israeli border communities. He stated that the military is acting decisively against Hezbollah targets and that the group will bear the consequences of its actions.

Hezbollah, according to the Israeli military, has chosen to join the conflict under Iranian guidance and will face the repercussions of its involvement. The Israeli military maintains that it is committed to ensuring the security of the Galilee region.

Meanwhile, Lebanese media sources reported that an Israeli force consisting of a tank and three bulldozers advanced from the Metula settlement towards the Tel al-Nahas area between Kfarkela and Burj al-Muluk in southern Lebanon.

Haaretz newspaper quoted military sources as saying that the army intends to continue evacuating the first and second lines of villages in southern Lebanon, after the army spokesman called on the residents there to move north.

The military is reportedly preparing for the possibility of a ground operation inside Lebanon, although the priority at this stage is to focus on the war against Iran.