Tue Oct 01 04:15:45 UTC 2024: ## Israel Launches Ground Raids in Lebanon, Escalating Conflict Despite International Calls for Restraint

**BEIRUT/JERUSALEM** – Israel launched limited ground raids into southern Lebanon early Tuesday, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah. The move comes despite international calls for restraint and attempts to broker a ceasefire.

Dubbed “Operation Northern Arrows,” the Israeli military said the ground raids targeted Hezbollah positions near the border, claiming they posed an immediate threat to Israeli communities. The operation is supported by airstrikes and artillery fire.

Residents near the Lebanese border town of Aita al-Shaab reported heavy shelling and the sound of helicopters and drones. Flares were repeatedly launched over the border town of Rmeish, illuminating the night sky.

The escalation follows weeks of intense air strikes by Israel, which have killed several Hezbollah commanders but also claimed the lives of over 1,000 civilians and displaced over one million people.

International pressure to de-escalate the conflict has intensified, with US President Joe Biden calling for an immediate ceasefire.

“I’m more worried than you might know, and I’m comfortable with them stopping,” Biden said, referencing Israel’s plans for a cross-border incursion. “We should have a ceasefire now.”

However, Israel has rejected a US-French proposal for a 21-day ceasefire, arguing it needs time to achieve its objectives.

The European Union also condemned the ground raids, urging Israel to avoid further operations in Lebanon.

“Arms should now be silenced, and the voice of diplomacy should speak and be heard by all,” said EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell.

The UN refugee agency has reported over 200,000 people displaced within Lebanon, with over 100,000 fleeing to neighboring Syria.

Hezbollah’s deputy leader Naim Qassem said the group was ready for ground engagement, while Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has hinted at further escalation in the coming days.

The escalation raises concerns about a wider conflict, with the potential for Iranian involvement adding to the complexity of the situation.

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