Slow Progress of Israeli Ground Incursion in Southern Lebanon
Military expert Colonel Hatem Karim Al-Falahi has provided insights into the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly regarding the slow pace of the Israeli ground incursion into southern Lebanon. As the Israeli army declared the start of a limited military operation two weeks ago, Colonel Al-Falahi noted that the ground battles are still in their early stages, primarily occurring at a frontline depth of one to three kilometers.
The dynamics of ground warfare dictate that the attacking forces must first establish a significant firepower advantage before deepening their incursion. Al-Falahi emphasized that the real defensive battle begins once the enemy attempts to penetrate the defensive positions. He elaborated that the defeat of the advancing party often unfolds in stages, and the complexity of the terrain in southern Lebanon adds to the challenges faced by Israeli forces.
Military Reinforcements and Tactical Challenges
Recent reports indicate that the Israeli Army has bolstered its ground operations with the addition of the 210th Military Division, joining four other divisions already engaged in the conflict. This division, comprising over 10,000 soldiers, aims to enhance the Israeli military's operational capabilities in the region. However, Al-Falahi pointed out that the deeper the Israeli army advances, the more vulnerable it becomes to Hezbollah's defensive strategies, as their administrative tail becomes increasingly distant, making them easier targets for counterattacks.
Moreover, the military expert highlighted that the fighting in areas such as Aita al-Shaab holds little strategic value for the Israeli army. He suggested that allowing the advancing forces to penetrate deeper into enemy territory could be a tactical ploy to concentrate fire on them, leading to potential destruction of the advancing units. The ongoing conflict has seen Israel conducting extensive airstrikes across Lebanon, including in Beirut, in response to Hezbollah's daily missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli military sites.
The Broader Context of the Conflict
Since the outbreak of the war on the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023, the situation in Lebanon has escalated, with Israel expanding its military operations against Hezbollah. The conflict has resulted in significant military engagements, with both sides employing a range of tactics, including artillery and drone warfare. As the Israeli Air Force seeks to provide support to ground forces, the complexities of the terrain and the tactical decisions made by both sides will continue to shape the outcome of this ongoing conflict.
