Israel Prepares for Major Ground Offensive in Southern Lebanon

Israeli officials confirm plans for a significant expansion of ground operations into southern Lebanon, aiming to seize territory south of the Litani River and dismantle Hezbollah's military infrastructure. This move, described by a senior Israeli official as mirroring actions taken in Gaza, could mark the largest Israeli ground invasion of its northern neighbor since 2006. The operation is expected to entail a prolonged Israeli occupation of the region, potentially drawing Lebanon deeper into the escalating conflict with Iran.

The decision to escalate follows a coordinated attack by Hezbollah and Iran, which saw over 200 missiles launched into Israel. Prior to this, Israel had reportedly sought to contain the Lebanon escalation to maintain focus on Iran. The Trump administration supports Israel's objective to disarm Hezbollah but is simultaneously pressing for direct Israel-Lebanon talks on a postwar agreement and urging restraint to limit damage to the Lebanese state.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have already deployed three armored and infantry divisions to the Lebanese border and are mobilizing additional reserves. Evacuation orders have been issued across southern Lebanon, extending for the first time to areas north of the Litani River and Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut's southern suburbs. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has dismissed the threat of a ground invasion, stating that it would be a "trap" for Israeli forces.