Israel warns of ground invasion in Lebanon as conflict escalates

Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has issued a stern warning to Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon, stating that ground forces may be deployed to combat the group.

Speaking to Israeli troops stationed at the northern border, Gallant explained that military operations will continue despite the killing of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, in an airstrike on Friday.

Gallant stressed that Israel will use all necessary means to achieve its objectives, including air, sea, and land forces. “We will use all the means that may be required — your forces, other forces, from the air, from the sea, and on land,” he said. “The elimination of Nasrallah is an important step, but it is not the final one.”

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated significantly since September 23, with Israel intensifying air raids on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, resulting in at least 558 deaths, the deadliest day of violence since Lebanon’s 1975-90 civil war.

Israeli officials have hinted at a potential ground invasion into Lebanon, following attacks that severely damaged Hezbollah’s leadership and communications.

Hezbollah began firing at Israeli military positions and communities along the border in support of Hamas, following the Palestinian militants’ unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, which triggered the war in Gaza.

The fighting had been relatively contained until the current escalation, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of Israeli residents from the northern border area nearly a year ago.

Gallant reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of its northern communities. “Our goal is to ensure the (safe) return of Israel’s northern communities to their homes. We are prepared to make every effort necessary to accomplish this mission.”

In response, Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, warned that the movement is prepared to face any Israeli ground operation and cautioned that the battle could be prolonged. The situation remains volatile, with international leaders urging a ceasefire.