While Israel insists that its actions in Lebanon are not a major incursion and only a “limited operation,” the situation on the ground suggests preparations for a broader military presence. CNN reports that on Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the deployment of an additional division, comprising thousands of soldiers, to join the ground war.
The reinforcement of infantry and armored units from the 36th Division, including the Golani Brigade, the 188th Armored Brigade, and the 6th Infantry Brigade, points to an operation of greater scope than previously declared. Reuters also noted the increasing scale of the mission earlier in the day.
The IDF stated that the ground operation is primarily aimed at destroying tunnels and military infrastructure along the border with Lebanon and reiterated that there are no plans for a broader operation targeting Beirut or major cities in southern Lebanon.
CNN reported that, while near the border, they observed a build-up of military vehicles and troops, as well as fighter jets in the air.
Both Hezbollah and Israel confirmed on Wednesday that their forces had clashed in southern Lebanon. The IDF announced that eight Israeli soldiers had been killed in combat—the first casualties of the ground operation there. Hezbollah claimed to have destroyed three Israeli Merkava tanks with guided missiles in the border town of Maroun el-Ras, and they also claimed to have struck an Israeli military post near Shomera on the Israel-Lebanon border early Wednesday.
Israel’s Rambam Hospital reported an “incident” in the north but declined to comment on the number of people admitted for treatment. CNN noted that 47 people had been taken to three hospitals after ground clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants.
Despite the visible buildup and growing confrontations, both Israel and Hezbollah appear to downplay the significance of the ground incursion, albeit for different reasons. Israel faces growing criticism over its war in Gaza and, while many of its allies support its right to defend itself, they are urging restraint in Lebanon. On the other hand, Hezbollah is eager to project strength after suffering significant losses, including the deaths of key leaders such as long-time chief Hassan Nasrallah.
