The Israeli army has announced the completion of another phase of preparations for a potential war on the Lebanese border, amid ongoing tensions with Iran-backed Hezbollah. This development comes after six months of intermittent exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants along the northern front.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Israeli army revealed that the equipment-focused preparation phase for a major troop buildup has been finalized. The statement, titled "Preparation for the Transition from Defense to Offensive," outlined that regular and reserve units are now ready to respond swiftly to any call, with the capability to be equipped and deployed at the front for defensive and offensive operations within hours.
The conflict between Israeli forces and Hezbollah has intensified since October 8, with the Hezbollah group regularly launching rockets into Israeli territory in protest against Israel's actions in Gaza and in solidarity with Palestinians. In response, Israel has conducted retaliatory airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.
Earlier on the same day, the Israeli army conducted airstrikes in eastern Lebanon, targeting a Hezbollah establishment following the group's claim of shooting down an Israeli drone. The attack on Lebanon came after Hezbollah launched rockets into the occupied Golan Heights, hitting an Israeli air defense base. However, the Israeli army did not immediately comment on their statement regarding the completion of preparations.
According to intelligence sources, the latest Israeli attack targeted the village of Janta on the Syrian border, where Hezbollah has a training base. While no casualties were reported in this attack, the ongoing conflict has already resulted in significant loss of life and displacement.
Reportedly, around 270 Hezbollah fighters and 50 civilians have been killed in Israeli shelling, while approximately 90,000 people have been displaced in southern Lebanon. Additionally, about 60,000 residents have evacuated their homes along Israel's northern border. Amid escalating tensions, Hezbollah has vowed to continue its shelling until a ceasefire is established in Gaza.
The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel dates back to a 2006 war and has resurged in recent months, marking one of the deadliest confrontations between the two adversaries. As the situation remains volatile, both sides are bracing for the possibility of further escalation along the Lebanese border.
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