The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated significantly, with Israel launching a 'limited, localized' operation against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon. This recent development follows a series of intense airstrikes and the elimination of key Hezbollah leaders, including its long-time leader, Hassan Nasrallah.
Recent Airstrikes and Casualties
In the early hours of Monday, an Israeli air raid demolished an apartment complex in central Beirut, resulting in the deaths of three Palestinian militants from the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. This strike marked a significant escalation, as it targeted an area beyond Hezbollah's traditional strongholds in the southern suburbs of Beirut. Over the past ten days, Israeli strikes have killed Nasrallah and six of his senior commanders, targeting thousands of militant positions across Lebanon. The Lebanese Health Ministry reports that more than 1,000 individuals have been killed, with nearly a quarter being women and children, and estimates suggest that the ongoing violence may have displaced as many as one million people.
Hezbollah's Response and Current Situation
Hezbollah has intensified its rocket assaults against Israel, launching several hundred rockets daily, although most have been intercepted or landed in uninhabited areas. Despite this, some injuries have been reported in Israel, but no deaths have occurred since two soldiers were killed near the border on September 19. The organization's actions suggest a cautious approach to avoid further escalation, particularly in light of the potential for an Israeli ground offensive. However, Hezbollah's capacity to retaliate may be compromised due to Israeli intelligence's apparent infiltration of its upper echelons.
Hezbollah has continued to launch rockets, drones, and missiles into northern Israel in solidarity with the Palestinians following Hamas' assault on October 7 from Gaza, which ignited the current conflict. Both Hezbollah and Hamas are allies supported by Iran.
Israeli Military Preparations and Ground Operations
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has warned that the next phase of the conflict with Hezbollah will commence shortly, with Israel prepared to use all available resources, including air and land operations. There are indications that Israeli special forces have already engaged in limited ground actions within Lebanon, and the air force has targeted various locations across the nation. The Israeli military has issued evacuation orders for several areas in Beirut's southern suburbs, and there are reports of heavy artillery fire in border towns in southern Lebanon.
The U.S. administration is monitoring the situation closely, with senior officials suggesting the potential for a limited ground incursion into Lebanon. Israeli troops are mobilizing along the northern border, and preparations are underway for a possible ground operation. However, Israel has not yet finalized any decision regarding such an operation.
Humanitarian Crisis and International Response
The ongoing violence has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, with over 100,000 individuals fleeing to Syria from Lebanon. The Lebanese healthcare system is severely strained, and emergency services are struggling with a lack of personnel and ambulances. The UN has called for a ceasefire, and Iran has requested an emergency UN Security Council meeting to condemn Israel's actions.
Former Israeli Justice Minister Yossi Beilin has advocated for both parties to reconsider UN Resolution 1701, established in 2006 to conclude the Israel-Hezbollah conflict and enhance security along the border. He emphasized the need to restore relations between Israel and Lebanon to prevent further escalation.
