Israeli military begins ground offensive in Lebanon

The Israeli military has initiated a limited ground offensive in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions near the border. This action, confirmed by the Israeli military in a statement released on social media, aims to neutralize threats to northern Israel from targets within close proximity to the border. The offensive involves precise airstrikes and artillery use alongside the ground operation, which began a few hours prior to the announcement. Codenamed ‘Operation Northern Arrows,’ it continues concurrently with operations in Gaza and other locations. The strategy was approved by Israel’s government war cabinet after months of planning. Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, emphasized the commitment to mobilize all capabilities to ensure the safety of citizens in the north. The incursion follows ongoing bombardment by Hezbollah, which began October 8, 2023, in solidarity with Hamas after the latter’s attack on Israel on October 7, killing 1,200 Israelis and taking 250 hostages.