Israel deploys tanks near Lebanon in preparation for ground offensive as tensions escalate with Hezbollah
The humanitarian crisis in Lebanon is the worst the country has faced in years, with over 2,00,000 people displaced and 1,540 killed since the conflict began
PTC Web Desk: Israel has deployed additional tanks and armored vehicles along its northern border with Lebanon, signaling preparations for a potential ground invasion. This move follows an escalation in the conflict with Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group, which has intensified its rocket attacks on Israel.
Top Israeli officials have warned that Lebanon could face destruction similar to Gaza if Hezbollah's attacks persist. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, speaking to troops, said, “We are striking Hezbollah from the air and sea, and you must prepare for a ground assault.” Since September 17, when a series of explosions were reportedly orchestrated by Israel, the conflict has left over 700 dead in Lebanon, including women and children.
On Friday, Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon killed at least 25 persons, raising fears of widespread destruction similar to that seen in Gaza. The ongoing violence has displaced over 30,000 persons in the past 72 hours, primarily Syrian refugees fleeing into Syria, according to the UN.
Israeli military vehicles, including tanks, were seen being transported towards the northern border. Reserve forces have been called up, and warnings have been issued to residents living near Hezbollah ammunition storage sites to evacuate.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue “full force” strikes against Hezbollah, emphasising the goal of ensuring the safe return of residents in northern Israel to their homes. Netanyahu also stated, “Our policy is clear; we will continue to strike Hezbollah with full force and will not stop until we achieve all our goals.”
In addition to the escalating conflict with Hezbollah, Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group targeted Tel Aviv and Ashkelon with ballistic missiles and drones on Friday. The Houthi leader, Yahya Sarea, promised further military actions in retaliation for the deaths of Palestinians and Lebanese.
Amid these developments, the United States, France, and other international allies have called for a 21-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. Although Prime Minister Netanyahu initially rejected ceasefire talks, he later indicated openness to continued discussions with the US on the matter.
The UN has described the escalation in Lebanon as “catastrophic,” with hospitals overwhelmed by the influx of casualties. The humanitarian crisis in Lebanon is the worst the country has faced in years, with over 2,00,000 people displaced and 1,540 killed since the conflict began.
As conditions worsen, several countries have initiated plans to evacuate their citizens. The Philippines announced it would evacuate 11,000 nationals if Israel launches a ground offensive, while Japan has dispatched military planes to assist in the evacuation of its citizens.