Lebanon ground offensive to be more difficult than Gaza Israeli army warns

Launching a ground operation in Lebanon would pose far greater challenges for the Israeli military compared to its ongoing offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, according to statements from the Israeli army.

One key reason is that Hezbollah, the militant group entrenched in Lebanon, has yet to fully utilize its extensive capabilities, including a sophisticated network of underground tunnels and fortified bunkers that could significantly hinder Israeli forces, Caliber.Az reports via Israeli media.

The Israeli military is currently exploring several options for a potential ground campaign. The most ambitious plan involves penetrating deep into central Lebanon, where Hezbollah maintains numerous rocket launchers and long-range missile systems capable of striking Israeli cities. This large-scale operation would aim to dismantle Hezbollah’s ability to launch attacks on Israel. Alternatively, a more limited operation would focus on clearing the border region of Hezbollah fighters until a ceasefire agreement is reached. This option could also include the complete withdrawal of the Lebanese army from the border area to avoid direct clashes.

Israeli officials have reportedly communicated to their American counterparts that any ground operation in Lebanon would be precise and time-limited, seeking to avoid the kind of prolonged engagement seen in previous conflicts. The White House has expressed its support for Israel's defensive actions, stating, "We support Israel's right to defend itself against Hezbollah".

However, a spokesperson for the U.S. National Security Council emphasized that while military action may be necessary, "diplomatic solutions are the only way to achieve long-term stability and security along the Israeli-Lebanese border."

Despite assurances from Israeli officials that the incursion into southern Lebanon would be limited in both scope and duration, they have declined to provide specifics regarding how far Israeli forces would advance into Lebanese territory or how long the operation might last.

By Tamilla Hasanova