Photo: IDF Press Service
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) has announced significant successes in its ground operations against Hezbollah since the campaign began on Monday. According to IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, quoted by The Times of Israel, at least 440 Hezbollah fighters have been killed since the start of the operations.
Strikes on key targets
According to IDF spokesman Daniel Hagar, the strikes targeted the terrorist organisation’s command centres, weapons caches and tunnels. In particular, on Saturday, a strike was launched against militants using a command post located in a mosque in the city of Bint Jbeil. This facility was used to plan attacks on Israeli troops.
The IDF emphasises that the operations are based on accurate intelligence, which indicates a high degree of preparation and coordination.
Pressure on Hezbollah
General Halevy noted that Israel must continue to put pressure on Hezbollah, inflicting lasting damage. “With no relief and no break for the organisation,” he added, stressing that the goal is not only to destroy the militants, but also to weaken their infrastructure.
About 30 field commanders were killed in the fighting and air strikes. Hagary said that some of the terrorists were forced to retreat to the north, while others were killed in clashes with Israeli troops.
The purpose of the operations
IDF operations in southern Lebanon have been described as “limited, localised and targeted raids”. The main goal is to destroy Hezbollah’s infrastructure in the border areas, allowing northerners to return to their homes. The Israeli army plans to expand the operations if necessary, but focuses on their rapid completion.
Thus, the situation in southern Lebanon remains tense, and further actions by the IDF could have a significant impact on regional security and stability.