Isn’t Israel Fighting Hamas in Gaza? Why Are Israeli Troops Now in Lebanon?

Since the conflict in Gaza started last October after Hamas attacked Israel, Israel and the Lebanon-based Hezbollah have seen increased hostilities.

Hezbollah has declared it will continue its attacks on Israel until a ceasefire is achieved in Gaza, which has suffered extensive damage due to Israeli airstrikes and ongoing conflict.

Recently, Israel has shifted its military focus northward, setting a new objective to facilitate the return of displaced citizens to their homes near the Lebanon border. This adjustment comes after approximately 60,000 Israelis were displaced due to rocket attacks by Hezbollah.

This has led to some of the most intense clashes between Israel and Hezbollah since the 2006 war in Lebanon, which resulted in around 1,100 deaths in Lebanon.

Last month, Israel conducted a coordinated attack targeting Hezbollah, resulting in numerous casualties and severe injuries among thousands, including women and children, through the explosion of devices like pagers and walkie-talkies.

Moreover, Israel has intensified its bombing campaigns in Lebanon, aiming at Hezbollah’s infrastructure and leadership. These bombings have not only targeted militant strongholds but have also destroyed residential areas and neighborhoods, particularly in southern Beirut, resulting in the deaths of several Hezbollah leaders and over a thousand civilians.