Israeli special forces have carried out raids along the Lebanese border to gather intelligence and prepare for a possible ground offensive against Hezbollah, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday.
The operations, which took place in recent months, are part of the IDF’s effort to weaken Hezbollah's military capabilities near the border.
IDF strikes targets in southern Lebanon
While no official date has been set, the report noted that the timing of a full-scale ground offensive could shift due to mounting pressure from the Biden administration, which has urged Israel to avoid a large-scale operation.
On Monday, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant hinted that an incursion into Lebanon may be imminent. "We will use all military capabilities, including yours," he told armored and infantry troops stationed near the border.
U.S. President Joe Biden reiterated on Sunday that avoiding a broader conflict was a priority. Biden, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and other allies, is working to secure a temporary ceasefire to pave the way for a diplomatic resolution.
ABC News reported that Israel may soon launch small-scale attacks across the Lebanese border to weaken Hezbollah's positions. U.S. officials told the network that any ground offensive would likely be limited in scope. “The key is ensuring that the tens of thousands of Israelis displaced from northern Israel can safely return home,” the officials said. “Decapitating Hezbollah is not enough.”