Israeli Army Begins Limited Ground Invasion in Southern Lebanon
Beirut, The Gulf Observer: The Israeli military has initiated a “limited, localised” ground operation in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah forces and infrastructure, according to a statement released on Tuesday. This escalation comes as fighting continues in Gaza, with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) carrying out operations on multiple fronts.
The IDF confirmed that the invasion, named “Operation Northern Arrows,” was launched following an order from the political leadership and is based on precise intelligence. “In accordance with the decision of the political echelon, a few hours ago, the IDF began limited, localised and targeted ground raids based on precise intelligence against Hezbollah targets and infrastructure in southern Lebanon,” the statement read. The military further explained that these targets, located in villages near the border, pose an immediate threat to Israeli communities in northern Israel.
The Israeli military emphasized that this operation follows a carefully prepared strategy, developed by the General Staff and the Northern Command. The IDF added that its ground forces are being supported by the Israeli Air Force and artillery units, conducting “precise strikes on military targets” to ensure the success of the operation.
The IDF indicated that the campaign will continue to evolve based on the ongoing situational assessments. The military statement underlined that “Operation Northern Arrows will continue according to the situational assessment and in parallel to combat in Gaza and other areas.”
On Monday evening, the Israeli military declared a closed military zone along the border with Lebanon, restricting access to certain settlements. The areas affected by the closure include Metula, Misgav Am, and Kfar Giladi. This move follows increased tensions and the anticipation of further escalations between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in the region.
In a parallel development, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for targeting Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon. The group said its fighters hit Israeli forces near the towns of Odaisseh and Kfarkela, asserting that the strikes resulted in “confirmed hits.” In a later statement, Hezbollah claimed to have fired artillery shells at an Israeli force in the Upper Galilee region, hitting a military installation near the Shtula settlement.
Amid the rising tensions, the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that three rockets were detected near Shtula after sirens sounded, though the rockets reportedly landed in open areas without causing significant damage.
This latest escalation raises concerns about further regional instability as Israel continues its military operations both in Gaza and along its northern border with Lebanon.
