Israeli army nearing end of ground offensive in southern Lebanon, reports indicate

JERUSALEM — The Israeli army is reportedly close to concluding its intensive ground operations in southern Lebanon, following a month of maneuvers aimed at countering Hezbollah activity along the border, according to Israel’s Public Broadcasting Corporation.

Military sources stated that the army is approaching the planned end of the offensive, with many active-duty and reserve soldiers being granted leave for recovery.

The report indicates Israel is preparing to redeploy forces along the Lebanese border, as cease-fire discussions continue in hopes of reaching a US-brokered political agreement with the Lebanese government.

The operation has reportedly achieved several objectives, including uncovering Hezbollah infrastructure and capturing members who provided strategic intelligence.

In response, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed frustration during a meeting with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), accusing Israel of “stubbornness” and maintaining an aggressive stance.

Israel’s Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper reported 37 Israeli soldiers were killed in clashes with Hezbollah fighters in October. Escalating its air campaign in Lebanon since September, Israel has targeted Hezbollah positions amid heightened tensions following its ongoing offensive on the Gaza Strip.

Lebanese health authorities report nearly 2,900 fatalities and over 13,000 injuries from Israeli attacks since last October, underscoring the severe toll on Lebanon as the conflict expanded with Israel’s incursion into southern Lebanon on October 1. — Agencies