Israel launches 'limited' ground raids in Lebanon

US says IDF troop positions indicate a full-scale invasion could be imminent as Hezbollah says it is ready for a fight

- COSETTE MOLIJN IN BEIRUT

Israel’s widely-expected ground incursion inside Lebanon is underway with its military saying troops had carried out “targeted” raids across the border while backed by airstrikes and artillery.

In a statement issued earlier today, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it was striking Hezbollah targets in areas close to its country’s northern border.

The announcement came shortly after Israeli media reported that the country’s cabinet had approved the next stage of the military operation targeting the militant group.

Pictures have also emerged of dozens of Israeli tanks and armoured vehicles at the border while airstrikes intensified in southern Beirut after the IDF ordered an evacuation of three areas.

UK foreign secretary David Lammy has described the situation as “volatile” as a charter flight was ordered to evacuate Britons out of the country.

Mr Lammy had joined US president Joe Biden in repeating calls for an immediate ceasefire amid fears of an escalation in the conflict.

But just after midnight yesterday morning, and following reports of heavy shelling on border towns, the IDF confirmed that a ground operation had started.

It said: “In accordance with the decision of the political echelon, a few hours ago, the IDF began limited, localised, and targeted ground raids based on precise intelligence against Hezbollah terrorist targets and infrastructure in southern Lebanon.

“These targets are located in villages close to the border and pose an immediate threat to Israeli communities in northern Israel. The IDF is operating according to a methodical plan set out by the General Staff and the Northern Command which IDF soldiers have trained and prepared for in recent months.

“The Israeli Air Force and IDF Artillery are supporting the ground forces with precise strikes on military targets in the area.”