Israel Launches Ground Raids in Southern Lebanon

On October 1, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) initiated targeted ground raids against Hezbollah in South Lebanon, following an escalation in airstrikes that has killed over 2,000 people in Lebanon. Despite Lebanese army commander General Joseph Aoun's assurance that the military will not engage in the conflict, the army has begun responding to Israeli fire and has lost at least 18 soldiers since clashes reignited. Israel's military operations, which have reportedly killed around 250 Hezbollah fighters, are seen as part of a broader confrontation with Iran, prompting speculation about possible retaliation against Iranian nuclear facilities. The conflict has highlighted Lebanon's complex political landscape, where a weak government and diverse sectarian interests complicate responses to external aggression. U.S. officials remain cautious, stating Israel has not guaranteed it will avoid targeting Iran's nuclear sites, amidst concerns about further escalation. As tensions continue to rise, Hezbollah claims to have repelled an Israeli incursion, indicating that the conflict is far from resolved.