Watch: Israeli Troops Launch Ground Offensive in Southern Lebanon: What We Know So Far

Israel has initiated what it describes as a “limited ground operation” in southern Lebanon, specifically targeting Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group. This marks a significant escalation in the year-long conflict, with Israel’s National Security Cabinet declaring this move as the “next phase” of its war with Hezbollah. This is only the fourth time in nearly 50 years that Israeli forces have publicly entered Lebanese territory, the last being during the 34-day war in 2006.

In preparation for the operation, Israel intensified airstrikes, which have killed hundreds and displaced around 1 million people in Lebanon. The most recent escalation came after Israel’s assassination of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, on Friday. The incursion is focused on dismantling immediate threats posed by Hezbollah near the border, but Israeli officials have been unclear on how long the operation will last or how deep into Lebanon their forces will venture.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Nasrallah’s assassination was a key move but that further actions were planned. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resisted international calls for de-escalation despite growing civilian casualties in both Lebanon and Gaza.

Historically, limited military operations declared by Israel have often evolved into more extended campaigns. This was the case with Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon in 1982, initially presented as a short mission to dismantle the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO). More recently, Israel’s operations in Gaza have similarly escalated beyond their original scope.

In the lead-up to this ground operation, Israel’s National Security Cabinet greenlit the next phase of the conflict, while Israeli forces prepared by launching small raids and sealing off northern Israeli communities near the Lebanon border. Hezbollah has continued its attacks on Israel, aiming for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Israel’s military objectives have shifted northward, particularly after Hezbollah’s rocket attacks displaced around 60,000 Israelis. With rising tensions and the heaviest fighting since the 2006 war, concerns have grown that the conflict could spiral into a wider regional war. In the face of Hezbollah’s losses, questions remain about whether its backer, Iran, will become directly involved in the conflict.

Israeli leaders, particularly Netanyahu, have signaled that the war is part of a broader strategy to “change the balance of power” in the Middle East. Iran has been involved indirectly through Hezbollah and other militant groups in the region but has refrained from direct conflict so far. Observers are concerned that any direct Iranian retaliation could potentially draw the U.S. further into the conflict.

The U.S. has supported Israel’s right to defend itself but has expressed concerns over “mission creep” that could lead to a longer, more expansive military operation. President Joe Biden proposed a 21-day ceasefire plan, but it was swiftly rejected by Israel, highlighting the ongoing strain between Washington and Tel Aviv in managing the escalating crisis.