Israel has launched a new wave of air and ground attacks across southern and eastern Lebanon, escalating its conflict with Hezbollah amid a wider war involving the United States and Iran The Israeli military warned of imminent strikes on the southern cities of Tyre and Sidon on Tuesday after its warplanes attacked several towns overnight, including Almajadel, Chaqra, Srifa, and targets in the Bekaa Valley Israel has also sent additional ground forces into southern Lebanon
The escalation follows attacks by Hezbollah, which last week launched missiles and drones toward a military site in the northern Israeli city of Haifa The Iran-backed group stated the attack was a response to the killing of its main benefactor, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28 The fighting has severe humanitarian consequences, with reports indicating more than 500,000 people have been displaced within Lebanon
Hezbollah, Iran’s primary proxy in Lebanon, remains a significant military force deeply embedded in the country However, sources state the group has been devastated by Israeli attacks since 2023 and was further weakened by the recent fall of the allied Assad regime in Syria In response to its losses, Hezbollah has been adapting its strategy by decentralizing military operations and promoting new leaders to replace those who have fallen
The dysfunction of the Lebanese state and army complicates efforts to contain the group, as Hezbollah’s military power continues to operate outside of state control The ongoing hostilities are intrinsically linked to the broader regional conflict, with the potential for further escalation hinging on the strategic calculations of Israel, Hezbollah, and their respective international partners.
Mohsin Rana
