The Israeli military has initiated small ground raids targeting Hezbollah and communities along its border with Lebanon. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller confirmed that Israel informed the United States about these operations, which he described as “limited operations focused on Hezbollah infrastructure near the border.”
So far, there have been no reports of direct clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah militants, who last engaged in ground combat on Lebanese soil during the month-long war in 2006. However, a Western diplomat in Cairo, involved in de-escalation efforts, indicated that a more extensive Israeli ground operation in Lebanon is “imminent.”
Speaking anonymously due to the situation’s sensitivity, the official noted that Israel had shared its operational plans with the U.S. and other Western allies, assuring them that the operation would be “limited.”
Since the outbreak of the war in Gaza, Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged fire nearly every day, displacing tens of thousands of residents in both Israel and Lebanon. Israel has stated its intention to continue striking Hezbollah until it is safe for families to return to their homes along the border. In response, Hezbollah has vowed to keep firing rockets into Israel until a ceasefire is achieved in Gaza.
While it remains unclear whether Israel has finalised its decision regarding a broader ground operation in Lebanon, reports of minor incursions are emerging from the region. Hezbollah has pledged to continue its resistance despite the recent loss of its long-time leader, Hassan Nasrallah, and other top officials due to Israeli airstrikes.
