The Israeli military has instructed its troops to brace for a potential ground invasion of Lebanon, following the militant group Hezbollah’s largest strike on Israel in retaliation for airstrikes on Lebanon that reportedly killed over 550 people. This marks a significant escalation in the conflict that has persisted for weeks, according to reports by AP News.
Hezbollah’s Deepest Attack
In a dramatic turn on Wednesday, Hezbollah fired dozens of projectiles, including a missile aimed at Israel’s capital, Tel Aviv. This attack represents the group’s deepest strike since the Gaza war began on October 7 last year. The assault came in response to Israel’s intensive airstrikes, which allegedly targeted Hezbollah’s weapon depots in southern and eastern Lebanon.
Ongoing Conflict Along the Border
The conflict has led to regular skirmishes and rocket attacks along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon. Hezbollah claims these actions are in solidarity with Palestinians facing harsh Israeli military strikes in Gaza. Tensions continue to mount as both sides exchange fire almost daily.
Key Developments in the Escalation
Israeli Army Prepares for Possible Invasion
Israeli Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, urged soldiers stationed in the north to prepare for potential ground operations in Lebanon. “Hezbollah expanded its range of fire, and later today, they will receive a very strong response. Prepare yourselves,” Halevi warned, emphasizing that the ongoing airstrikes are designed to set the stage for a ground invasion if necessary.
Shifting U.S. and Israeli Stance
While Israel and the U.S. had previously stated there were no immediate plans for a ground invasion of Lebanon, recent developments suggest a shift. These latest remarks represent the most explicit signal of a possible escalation.
Diplomatic Efforts for a Ceasefire
The U.S. has been working with international partners at the UN Security Council to push for a temporary ceasefire to ease tensions and allow displaced residents in Israel and Lebanon to return to their homes.
Blinken Warns of Disaster
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for restraint, warning that an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah would be “disastrous” for the entire region and its people.
France Supports Ceasefire Proposal
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that France is working alongside the U.S. on a 21-day ceasefire proposal to pave the way for peace talks between Israel and Hezbollah. Barrot is expected to travel to Beirut later this week to promote the plan.
Call for Protection of Civilians
Barrot emphasized the importance of both parties accepting the ceasefire proposal quickly to protect civilian lives and allow diplomatic negotiations to begin.
Israel Open to Diplomacy
Israel’s UN ambassador, Danny Danon, expressed openness to diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further escalation. “We are grateful for all of those who are making a sincere effort with diplomacy to avoid a full war,” Danon said.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Appeals to the UN
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati urged the UN Security Council to act swiftly, calling for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territories and an end to Israel’s daily violations.
President Biden’s Warning
U.S. President Joe Biden cautioned about the risk of an “all-out” war, saying that a ceasefire in Lebanon could potentially help address broader conflicts in the West Bank and Gaza as well.
UN’s Plea for Immediate Ceasefire
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an immediate halt to hostilities, stating that “hell is breaking loose.” The UN reports that over 90,000 Lebanese people have been displaced in just five days of Israeli airstrikes, with more than 200,000 displaced since the conflict began on October 7.
The escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is causing widespread displacement and destruction, with international leaders pushing for urgent ceasefire measures to prevent further devastation.
