Israel set to invade Lebanon today amid rising regional tension: Reports

Lebanon's Prime Minister Najib Mikati reported that nearly 1 million people have fled their homes, seeking refuge in safer areas.

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Bhaskar Chakravorty
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A U.S. official confirmed that Israel has informed the U.S. of a planned limited ground incursion into Lebanon, which may begin within hours. (X/Osint613)

World News: Over the weekend, Israel intensified its airstrikes on Iran-backed groups in Lebanon and launched attacks on Yemen’s Houthi rebels. This escalation comes amid growing fears of a regional conflict as Israel continues its nearly yearlong war against Hamas and Hezbollah, potentially drawing Iran and the U.S. into the fray.

A U.S. official confirmed that Israel has informed the U.S. of a planned limited ground incursion into Lebanon, which may begin within hours. While the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has not yet launched a full-scale ground operation, officials say "all options are on the table." Israeli forces struck Houthi targets in Yemen’s Hodeida after recent U.S. and British strikes on the group. The Houthis have regularly launched drone and missile attacks on international vessels in the Red Sea, further destabilizing the region.

Israeli firepower

Adding to this growing conflict, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) recently conducted a targeted operation that eliminated Fateh Sherif, the head of Hamas’ Lebanon branch. Sherif was a key player in coordinating Hamas' terror operations with Hezbollah, including recruiting operatives and acquiring weapons. His official role as a member of the UNRWA and head of the UNRWA Teachers Union in Lebanon raised concerns over the involvement of international organizations in militant activities.

Following the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on Friday, Israeli forces have continued striking Hezbollah and Hamas positions across Lebanon. Despite the blow to its leadership, Hezbollah’s deputy leader Naim Qassem vowed to continue fighting Israel, even as Israeli air defenses intercepted most of Hezbollah’s rockets. Meanwhile, the death toll among Lebanese civilians has soared, with over 1,000 killed in the past two weeks.

Lebanon's Prime Minister Najib Mikati reported that nearly 1 million people have fled their homes, seeking refuge in safer areas. Many displaced families have found temporary shelter at Beirut's Blue Mosque, desperate for safety as Israeli bombardments continue. Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant indicated that the killing of Nasrallah and Fateh Sherif are only steps in a broader military operation, signaling that a ground incursion into Lebanon is imminent.