The chief of the general staff of the Israel Defense Forces, Herzi Halevi, has instructed troops to prepare for a possible ground entry into Lebanon. Israeli jets have been striking Hezbollah targets to ensure the safety of residents in northern Israel. The goal is to combat Hezbollah in enemy territory, where they have built military outposts and infrastructure. The troops are being trained for a maneuver to enter these areas and engage with Hezbollah operatives. Israeli strikes have caused at least 51 deaths in Lebanon, leading to increased tensions in the region.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed concern over the escalating situation and called for all parties to de-escalate and pursue diplomatic solutions. US President Joe Biden has acknowledged the possibility of all-out war in the Middle East but also sees potential for a settlement. The US government, along with France, is working on ceasefire proposals, but progress has been limited.
The Israeli military continues to conduct strikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, with jets hitting 280 targets today. The IDF is also calling up reserve brigades to support efforts against Hezbollah. In addition to the conflict in the north, Israel’s military operation in the Gaza Strip is ongoing. Meanwhile, Israeli forces have detained 35 people in the occupied West Bank, bringing the total arrests to over 10,900 since October 7th. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has convened a security cabinet meeting amid rising tensions.
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