Israel has initiated a ground invasion in southern Lebanon against the militant group Hezbollah, marking a significant escalation in their long-standing conflict.

The Israeli military stated that its troops are conducting “limited” raids in border villages, accompanied by intensive airstrikes throughout Lebanon.

The Israeli government has expressed that the objective of this operation is to ensure the safe return of residents displaced by Hezbollah attacks in northern Israel. Recent weeks have seen heavy military actions by Israel against the Iran-backed Shiite organization, culminating in the reported killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. While Hezbollah has been weakened, it remains defiant, continuing to launch rocket barrages into northern Israel and signaling its readiness for further conflict.

The announcement of the ground invasion has sent shockwaves through Lebanon. According to BBC Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega, the news that Israel had commenced ground operations felt almost inevitable in the current climate. The Israeli military confirmed that troops, supported by air and artillery fire, began “localized and targeted raids” against what they described as immediate threats posed by Hezbollah in border villages.

The ground invasion is viewed with concern, as it raises fears of a broader military campaign against Hezbollah, reminiscent of the month-long war between the two sides in 2006. The situation remains fluid, and there are growing apprehensions about the potential for regional escalation as hostilities continue.