Beirut, Oct 02 (V7N)– Hezbollah, the Lebanese armed group, has escalated attacks against Israel, launching a series of rockets since Israel began its military operation aimed at eliminating Hamas in Gaza. The conflict intensified as Israeli and Hezbollah forces engaged in counter-attacks along the southern Lebanese border, raising fears of a full-scale war.

In response to the recent deaths of senior Hezbollah commanders, including leader Hassan Nasrallah in an airstrike, Israel launched a ground operation in Lebanon on Monday night. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the operation, naming it "Operation Northern Arrow," targeting Hezbollah bases in southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah fighters have been stationed.

Israel has stated that the operation is aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s secret tunnels, which, like Hamas' tunnels in Gaza, are considered a significant threat. The IDF claimed that its elite 98th division, previously engaged in Gaza, crossed into Lebanon with the support of air and artillery forces. The Israeli military reported strong resistance from Hezbollah forces.

Hezbollah, however, has denied that Israeli ground forces have made any significant advances, although the group has acknowledged firing rockets and artillery at Israeli positions. Lebanese security officials and residents of southern Lebanon have reported intense artillery, drone, and airstrike activity in border towns, further escalating the conflict.

The situation remains dire, with over 1 million Lebanese displaced by the fighting. The Wall Street Journal has also reported that Israeli forces entered several Hezbollah tunnels on Tuesday morning.

The international community has reacted with growing concern. While the United States expressed support for Israel’s right to self-defense, President Joe Biden has called for an immediate ceasefire. Lebanon's Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Türkiye have also condemned Israel’s ground operations, urging a halt to the violence and withdrawal of Israeli troops. The UN has labeled the incursion a violation of Lebanon's sovereignty, further complicating the already volatile situation in the region.

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