Beirut, October 18, 2024 — Hezbollah has announced its intention to escalate tensions with Israel, signaling the start of a new phase in the ongoing conflict. In a written statement released by the group’s leadership, Hezbollah declared that they would intensify actions against Israeli forces in response to recent military operations.
“Following directives from the leadership, we will enter a new phase in our confrontation with the Israeli enemy, which will raise the level of tension in the coming days,” the statement read.
The announcement comes after a series of Israeli attacks on Lebanese territory since September 23, 2024. In particular, on September 30, the Israeli army launched limited but concentrated ground assaults targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon.
**Heavy Casualties and Equipment Losses**
According to Hezbollah’s statement, the ongoing Israeli ground offensive has resulted in significant losses for Israel. The group claims that since the start of the attacks, 55 Israeli soldiers have been killed, over 500 wounded, and several pieces of military equipment have been destroyed. These include 20 Merkava tanks, 4 military bulldozers, and one armored personnel carrier. Additionally, Hezbollah reports the downing of two Israeli Hermes 450 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
This escalation marks a significant intensification in the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, raising concerns over potential broader regional implications. The situation remains highly volatile as both sides prepare for further military engagements.
**Context and Background**
The ongoing hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel are part of a long-standing conflict, with tensions frequently flaring along the Israel-Lebanon border. Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran, has often engaged in skirmishes and military confrontations with Israeli forces, particularly in southern Lebanon, which is a stronghold of the group.
Israel, for its part, views Hezbollah as a major security threat, citing the group’s extensive military capabilities and its influence in Lebanon. Recent Israeli operations have focused on neutralizing Hezbollah’s infrastructure and preventing the group from expanding its reach along the border.
As the conflict enters this new phase, observers are closely watching for any signs of a broader escalation that could draw in other regional actors and further destabilize the Middle East.
