Israel Launches Limited Operation Against Hezbollah Targets in Southern Lebanon

The Israeli military commenced a 'limited, localized' operation against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, marking a new front in its conflict with the militant group. The operation involves air force and artillery support and has been planned for months. This escalation follows continuous exchanges of fire since the Gaza conflict began.

The Israeli military on Tuesday commenced a 'limited, localized' operation targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. The move opens a new front in the ongoing conflict with the Lebanese militant group.

The operation, announced in a brief statement, involves coordinated efforts between air force and artillery units to support ground forces. The military has been preparing for this operation for months, according to officials. 'A few hours ago, the IDF began limited, localized and targeted ground raids,' the military stated. These raids focus on areas near the border that pose an immediate threat to Israeli communities in northern Israel.

U.S. officials confirmed that Israel had launched small ground raids and locked down communities along its northern border. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller indicated Israel informed the U.S. about the operations, which target Hezbollah infrastructure. In Beirut, airstrike sounds and smoke filled the skies, especially in Hezbollah-dense southern suburbs.

The ongoing conflict has seen daily exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah since the Gaza war erupted, displacing thousands in both Israel and Lebanon. Hezbollah's acting leader, Naim Kassem, declared the group's readiness to respond to any Israeli ground offensive. Meanwhile, Israel has intensified its military presence along the border, preparing for further escalation.

(With inputs from agencies.)