Is Israel preparing to invade southern Lebanon? Experts respond
Israeli military buildup near southern Lebanon raises concerns over a potential ground invasion.
Al Jazeera reports on the escalating military tensions between Israel and Lebanon, specifically focusing on the Israeli designation of the area stretching from the Litani River to Ras Naqoura as the 'Death Zone.' This shift in Israeli rhetoric suggests a transition from deterrence to open escalation, with the mobilization of five military divisions indicating serious intentions for a ground operation. Political analysts, including Ibrahim Haidar, highlight that Israel's recent military activity is not merely a show of force; rather, it is an effort to establish a security zone extending 7 to 10 kilometers into Lebanese territory, regardless of any potential diplomatic resolutions. The article underscores that Israel has explicitly informed the United States that it does not plan to withdraw in the near future. Despite a ceasefire agreement in November 2024, the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah remains active, as noted by researcher Adel Shaddi, who observes that Israel has continued its military operations without facing any gunfire from Hezbollah during this period. Furthermore, the Lebanese government faces challenges in responding to ongoing Israeli airstrikes, highlighting the fragile geopolitical situation in the region and the potential for increased hostilities in the future.