Israel's Lebanon ground operation starts: Here's how IDF plans to eliminate Hezbollah through 'Operation Northern Arrow'

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have initiated a ground invasion into southern Lebanon, focusing on Hezbollah's military infrastructure in villages near the Israel-Lebanon border. The IDF stated that this action aims to neutralize immediate threats posed to northern Israeli communities. In a statement shared on X, the IDF announced, "In accordance with the decision of the political echelon, a few hours ago, the IDF began limited, localized, and targeted ground raids based on precise intelligence against Hezbollah terrorist targets and infrastructure in southern Lebanon."

In accordance with the decision of the political echelon, a few hours ago, the IDF began limited, localized, and targeted ground raids based on precise intelligence against Hezbollah terrorist targets and infrastructure in southern Lebanon. These targets are located in villages…

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) September 30, 2024

Operation "Northern Arrows" Targets Hezbollah
The ground invasion, named Operation "Northern Arrows," comes as part of a broader military strategy. According to the IDF, the operation was meticulously planned by the General Staff and the Northern Command, with soldiers having trained for months in preparation. "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 IDF further explained. The raids are limited and localized, targeting Hezbollah positions in villages near the border that have been identified as posing an immediate threat to Israeli communities in northern Israel.

Israeli Defence Minister Signals Escalation
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant had hinted at this escalation during a meeting with local council leaders in northern Israel on Monday. He indicated that the next phase of the conflict along Lebanon’s southern border would soon begin, following a period of intense airstrikes. "The IDF is continuing to operate to achieve the goals of the war and is doing everything necessary to defend the citizens of Israel and return the citizens of northern Israel to their homes," the IDF said in its statement, reiterating its commitment to the safety of Israeli civilians affected by the conflict.

Airstrikes Lead to Heavy Casualties
The ground invasion follows weeks of Israeli airstrikes that have left hundreds dead and many more injured across Lebanon. The air force and artillery have conducted "precise strikes," with reports of heavy shelling, helicopters, and drones over the border area. In the Lebanese town of Rmeish, flares in the night sky have been reported, signaling heightened military activity. Gallant’s statement on Monday had pointed to the need to address ongoing rocket fire from Hezbollah and protect residents living in Israel's northern border areas, who have been caught in the crossfire of nearly a year of border clashes.

Hezbollah Vows to Resist Ground Invasion
In response to Israel’s ground invasion, Hezbollah has vowed to confront Israeli forces on the ground. Sheikh Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s deputy leader, declared in a televised address, "We will confront any possibility, and we are ready if the Israelis decide to enter by land." He added that Hezbollah’s forces have been actively firing rockets into Israeli territory, reaching distances as far as 150 kilometers (93 miles). Qassem acknowledged that the ongoing conflict could be prolonged but expressed confidence in Hezbollah’s eventual victory, citing their success in the 2006 conflict with Israel.

The military escalation is having a significant impact on civilians on both sides of the border. The conflict has already displaced thousands of Israelis living in northern communities, with the IDF focusing on securing these areas to enable residents to return home. On the Lebanese side, civilians are also bearing the brunt of the violence, with heavy artillery and airstrikes reported across multiple regions.

In Gaza, the ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Palestinian militant groups has also intensified. The Hamas military wing, Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility for killing and wounding Israeli soldiers in the al-Fakhari area of southern Gaza. In another report, the Shujayea Boys School in Gaza City, sheltering displaced Palestinians, was struck by Israeli forces, resulting in the deaths of six people. Separately, an attack on two homes in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza claimed the lives of 13 people, including women and children.

Hezbollah's Leadership and Ongoing Resistance
Sheikh Naim Qassem, in his first public speech since the death of Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah, reiterated that Hezbollah forces are fully prepared for a prolonged engagement with Israeli forces. "The resistance forces are ready for a ground engagement," Qassem stated, reflecting Hezbollah’s readiness for further military confrontation. He referenced the 2006 conflict as evidence of Hezbollah’s capability to withstand and ultimately prevail against Israeli forces.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah shows no signs of de-escalation, as both sides prepare for prolonged military engagement. While the IDF continues its ground invasion as part of Operation "Northern Arrows," Hezbollah has made clear its intent to resist on all fronts. With ongoing airstrikes, ground operations, and rocket fire, the humanitarian toll continues to rise. Both Israeli and Lebanese civilians face the harsh consequences of this military escalation, and the situation remains tense with no clear resolution in sight.

As the conflict intensifies, the international community is closely watching for further developments. For now, Israel's objective remains the neutralization of Hezbollah’s military threat, while Hezbollah remains determined to defend its territory and resist the Israeli ground invasion.