Israeli Military Operations Expand in Southern Lebanon
Recent developments in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah have seen the Israeli army intensifying its military operations in southern Lebanon. An Israeli official confirmed that the army has begun to penetrate a new axis, advancing into a second line of Lebanese villages approximately three kilometers beyond its initial area of operations. This move follows the commencement of a ground offensive in early October, which has faced fierce resistance from Hezbollah fighters, resulting in significant Israeli casualties.
The Israeli army has reported that specialized units, including Egoz, Duvdevan, and Maglan, are now operating in new areas under the command of the Galilee Division. This expansion of operations is perceived as an effort to gain diplomatic leverage and diminish Hezbollah's capacity to launch attacks on Israeli territories. Former Deputy Speaker of the Knesset, Yoni Shitbon, emphasized the strategic importance of this military escalation.
In parallel, the situation in the southern suburbs of Beirut has escalated, with Israeli airstrikes targeting areas known to be associated with Hezbollah. Following an evacuation order issued by the Israeli army, new strikes occurred in the Ghobeiry neighborhood, creating significant destruction and prompting further displacement of residents. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been conducting a sustained bombing campaign since late September, aiming to neutralize Hezbollah strongholds and facilitate the return of displaced residents in northern Israel.
Humanitarian Impact and Economic Consequences
The ongoing conflict has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, which is already grappling with severe economic challenges. A recent World Bank report highlighted that the violence has led to economic losses exceeding $5 billion over the past year, with nearly 100,000 homes damaged since the escalation began. The southern suburbs of Beirut, a Hezbollah stronghold, have seen a significant exodus of residents, although some return intermittently to assess the damage to their properties.
As the conflict continues, diplomatic efforts are underway to establish a ceasefire. Reports indicate that the US Ambassador to Beirut, Lisa Johnson, has submitted a draft proposal for a ceasefire to Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri. However, the details of this proposal remain undisclosed, and the situation on the ground remains volatile as military operations persist.
