The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation has reported that the Israeli ground operation in southern Lebanon is nearing its conclusion, with expectations that it will end within one to two weeks. Colonel Hatem Karim Al-Falahi, a military and strategic expert, commented on the situation, asserting that Hezbollah is likely not taking Israeli claims seriously, viewing them as potential deception tactics by the Israeli army. He emphasized that the Israeli military initiated the conflict with Hezbollah but may struggle to cease operations without a balanced outcome between both parties.
Al-Falahi highlighted the evolving nature of Israeli objectives in Lebanon. Initially, the Israeli army aimed to facilitate the return of residents to northern areas but has since shifted goals to include controlling the Litani River and disarming Hezbollah. The Israeli military's approach has faced setbacks, particularly as Hezbollah's missile capabilities have demonstrated reach into Israeli territory, including cities like Haifa and Tel Aviv.
The toll of the ongoing conflict has been significant, with reports of casualties on both sides. The Israeli army has confirmed the deaths of two individuals in Majd al-Krum, along with ten soldiers killed and over twenty injured in a single day of fighting in Lebanon. Hezbollah claims to have targeted four Israeli tanks and launched numerous missiles, indicating a resurgence in its combat capabilities and a determination to impose a new reality in the region.
Since September 23, Israel has conducted extensive land and air operations against Lebanon, following a year marked by border confrontations that escalated after the conflict in Gaza began in October 2023.
