Israel has initiated ground operations in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah forces, as tensions escalate across the region. The Israeli military confirmed the operation following reports of fresh strikes in southern Beirut, according to a BBC correspondent on the scene. Loud explosions echoed over Beirut, with Israeli authorities having earlier ordered residents in three districts to evacuate.
In the interim, Syria reported that an Israeli airstrike in Damascus had claimed multiple lives, further complicating the regional conflict. Explosions were also heard across Beirut, sparking concerns about civilian casualties as thousands flee the city.
Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, addressed the situation, stating the group was prepared for Israel’s ground offensive. In his speech, Qassem warned that the conflict could be prolonged, signaling a challenging road ahead for both sides. This marks the first public statement by a high-ranking Hezbollah official since the death of their leader, Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on Beirut.
The conflict has already resulted in significant loss of life and displacement. Lebanese officials have reported that over 1,000 people have died in the past two weeks, with estimates suggesting up to a million people may be displaced due to the violence.
The situation remains fluid, with both Hezbollah and Israeli forces continuing to exchange fire. As the conflict intensifies, civilians in Lebanon and Syria are increasingly caught in the crossfire, contributing to a growing humanitarian crisis in the region.
