Hezbollah’s warning to Israel of a high price for a ground offensive in Gaza has raised concerns about a possible escalation of the conflict. Sheikh Naim Kassem, deputy leader of Hezbollah, claims that his organization is ready to weaken the Israeli enemy and is already “in the heart of the battle.” Officials from Hamas have also stated that Hezbollah will join the fighting if Israel launches a ground offensive.
The tension along the Lebanon-Israel border has been increasing since the Hamas attack on southern Israel. There are growing concerns that Hezbollah may attempt to open a new front in the Israel-Hamas war with a large-scale attack on northern Israel. Kassem asserts that Hezbollah’s actions in heating up the border are already having an impact on the course of the conflict.
The situation has resulted in exchanges of fire along the border between Lebanon and Israel. The Israeli military has taken precautions by evacuating a border city after three residents were wounded in the crossfire. Israel has responded with shelling and drone strikes in southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah has fired rockets and missiles towards Israel. Hezbollah claims to have successfully attacked several Israeli positions and targeted an Israeli infantry force.
Since October 7, a total of 19 Lebanese militants, including six Hezbollah fighters, have been killed. Both sides report shelling and attacks in various villages along the border, further escalating tensions.
Foreign dignitaries have urged Lebanese officials to convince Hezbollah not to participate in the conflict. However, Hezbollah remains adamant that they are part of the battle and rejects the calls to refrain from involvement. Kassem believes that Hamas and the resistance fighters in Gaza are prepared, making an Israeli ground invasion their “graveyard.”
The situation remains fragile and has potential for further escalation with Hezbollah’s involvement. As the conflict continues, the international community is closely watching the developments in the region, hoping for a swift resolution to avoid further bloodshed.