Exchanges of fire between the IDF and Hezbollah have increased along the border
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has warned Hezbollah that Israel may launch a ground invasion of Lebanon, describing it as a potential “quick, surprising, and sharp” operation. This warning comes as tensions continue to escalate between Israel and the Lebanese armed group, with both sides exchanging fire across the border, as reported by media on Wednesday.
During a visit to Israel’s northern border, Gallant addressed servicemen, stating that Israel is “approaching a decision-making crossroad.” He emphasized that the future course of action would largely depend on Hezbollah’s behavior.
“We are waging a limited war in the northern region. We are using a small part of the IDF’s power, but things can change in an instant, from a main effort in the south to a main effort in the north, and it will be quick, surprising, and very sharp,” the outlet quoted Gallant as saying.
However, Gallant also indicated that Israel is open to negotiating with Hezbollah, acknowledging the growing concerns about the potential for a full-blown war in the Middle East.
“If Hezbollah wants to reach an agreement with us and reach a situation where it withdraws from the border line to areas beyond the Litani River as stipulated by the UN resolution, then we will reach an agreement with it,” Gallant stated.
Last month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the redeployment of some IDF units from Gaza to the Lebanese border, prompting fears of an imminent invasion of Lebanon.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah issued a warning on Wednesday, stating that the group will “launch missiles at settlements that were not previously targeted,” if Israel continues to “target” civilians in Lebanon.
According to Lebanese media, eight civilians, including three children, were killed in Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon earlier this week. Data from the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED) indicates that Israeli attacks in Lebanon have resulted in over 500 deaths, while Hezbollah and other armed groups have been responsible for attacks that killed at least 21 Israelis.
The situation has escalated since the commencement of the Israeli offensive in Gaza last October. The IDF and Hezbollah have engaged in increasingly frequent exchanges of fire along the border. The militant group claims that its attacks on Israel are in solidarity with the Palestinian armed group Hamas.
This escalation coincides with the ongoing Israeli operation in Gaza, which, according to Palestinian health authorities, has claimed the lives of nearly 38,800 people since October. Israel initiated the operation following a cross-border incursion by Hamas, resulting in the deaths of at least 1,200 people and the capture of 250 hostages. Approximately 116 captives are believed to be still held in Gaza.