Escalation in the Middle East: Israel Expands Ground Offensive Against Hezbollah

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced significant strides in Israel's offensive against Hezbollah, claiming multiple leader eliminations. Amid escalating tensions, Israel deployed a fourth army division into southern Lebanon. Hezbollah's deputy left negotiations open for a ceasefire, pushing for truce talks through Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.

In an intensified military campaign, Israel has surged its ground offensive against Hezbollah, deploying a fourth army division into southern Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reported the killing of two successors to the group's leader, Hassan Nasrallah.

The expansion comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Hezbollah, backed by Iran, facing significant losses. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant suggested that a senior Hezbollah leader, Hashem Safieddine, had been eliminated in recent airstrikes.

Washington's diplomatic circles closely watch as Hezbollah's deputy leader, Naim Qassem, hints at a possible ceasefire, seeking mediation through Lebanon's Parliament Speaker. Meanwhile, Iran, a staunch Hezbollah supporter, cautions against further Israeli actions, emphasizing the need for restraint.

(With inputs from agencies.)