Israel started conducting military operations against Hezbollah locations in southern Lebanon on October 1, 2024. The intensification came after an Israeli bombing on September 27, 2024, which murdered Hassan Nasrallah, the head of Hezbollah, and several other important members of the militant organization.
Targeted airstrikes, artillery, and ground assaults are all part of the ongoing operations against Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon, including Beirut and border towns like Marjiun, Wazani, and Khayyam. A "small ground operation" was defined by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as an attempt to counter Hezbollah's offensive capabilities close to the border.
The battle escalated as Hezbollah responded by firing drones and missiles at Israeli military targets in northern Israel. Additionally, the Israeli military has issued an evacuation order for civilians in Beirut due to intense bombardment. Concerns about the war have been expressed internationally by nations including the United.
What's Hezbollah's response?
In response to the Israeli operations, Hezbollah has been getting ready for any ground conflicts. They threatened to confront Israeli soldiers if they penetrated Lebanon over land and launched rockets and drones against northern Israel. The leadership of Hezbollah vowed to thwart any Israeli military advances and underlined that their troops are ready for any ground assault.
Any ceasefire updates?
The US, France and other international partners have called for a 21-day ceasefire aimed at ending hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The purpose of this ceasefire is to provide an opportunity for mediation and de-escalation. Although Lebanon has announced its support, and so has Israel, Hezbollah has not officially acknowledged it. The request is part of a broader effort to stabilize the border between Israel and Lebanon amid tensions and conflicts.
Next Move Israel:
The next move Israel will take is to keep up ground operations in southern Lebanon with the goal of demoralizing Hezbollah. The Israeli troops initiated these operations, and if Hezbollah keeps up its attacks, there is talk of expanding them. In reaction to Hezbollah's reaction, Israeli officials also intend to demolish the organization's border defenses and other military activities.
US Diplomatic Role:
Leading the diplomatic effort in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is the United States. It has expressed support for Israel's activities against Hezbollah and called for a truce to prevent further escalation. U.S. officials have mediated talks between Israeli and Lebanese authorities to achieve a 21-day ceasefire. Furthermore, the US has cautioned Iran not to intervene directly and imposed restrictions on Hezbollah's financial networks.
