Israeli Military Chief Tells Troops: “Prepare for Possible Ground Offensive in Lebanon”

Israel’s military chief has ordered troops to prepare for a potential ground offensive in Lebanon as heavy airstrikes continue for a third consecutive day. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are intensifying their operations against the Shiite militia group Hezbollah, following a series of cross-border clashes that have left both nations on edge.

During a visit to a troop exercise on the northern border, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi emphasized the need for readiness, stating, “You hear the jets overhead; we have been striking all day. This is both to prepare the ground for your possible entry and to continue degrading Hezbollah.”

Ori Gordin, the IDF commander for the northern region, confirmed that two additional reserve brigades are being mobilized for operations, declaring that the army has entered a “new phase” of its campaign. Gordin underscored the importance of changing the security situation in the region and the necessity for troops to be ready for ground maneuvers.

Israel’s actions are partly aimed at facilitating the return of approximately 60,000 displaced residents in northern Israel, who have been uprooted due to ongoing hostilities with Hezbollah. Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon, speaking at an emergency UN Security Council meeting, expressed the desire for a ceasefire that would enable displaced citizens to return to their homes. He noted, “We hope it will happen before a war.”

The conflict, which has now spanned over 11 months, has also led to significant displacement in Lebanon. Hezbollah has indicated that its fighters are prepared to confront any potential ground invasion from Israel.

In a bid to de-escalate the situation, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced that a proposal for a temporary ceasefire, in collaboration with the U.S., would be presented soon. Barrot warned, “The situation in Lebanon today may reach the point of no return,” and highlighted that diplomatic solutions are still achievable.

U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron have called for a settlement ensuring safety and security for civilians, emphasizing the importance of giving diplomacy a chance. Their joint statement, endorsed by several international partners, urges immediate support for a temporary ceasefire.

Recent Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of 51 individuals and injuries to over 200 in Lebanon, according to Lebanese Health Minister Firass Abiad. The death toll from the current escalation has surpassed 600 since Monday, as Israeli operations target Hezbollah positions across the country, including towns and villages in southern Lebanon and north of Beirut.

In a notable development, Hezbollah launched rockets into Tel Aviv, marking a significant escalation in their capabilities. Although the IDF intercepted the rockets, it acknowledged the militia’s expanding range. IDF Chief of Staff Halevi warned that Hezbollah would face a “very strong response” for these actions.

The conflict has drawn international attention, with humanitarian organizations calling for urgent aid to support the growing number of displaced individuals. The United Nations reports that over 90,000 people have been displaced since Monday, with the need for $170 million in humanitarian assistance to address both ongoing and emerging needs.