Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, said ground troops are advancing and operating in southern Lebanon [1].
This movement signals a potential escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, as the IDF seeks to maintain security along its northern front. The presence of ground forces in Lebanese territory increases the risk of a wider regional confrontation.
Zamir's statement on May 29, 2026 [1], follows a period of intensified activity in the region. While the IDF has focused on operations in southern Lebanon, other reports indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed troops crossed the Litani River [2]. Such movements suggest an expansion of the operational area deeper into Lebanese territory.
The Israeli military has maintained a high state of alert across multiple borders. Zamir said to division commanders that the military is prepared for potential escalation across all fronts [3]. He also said that the IDF remains in a state of constant readiness and is prepared to renew fighting if required [4].
These ground operations are part of a broader campaign to degrade Hezbollah's capabilities. Since late February, the IDF has eliminated more than 2,000 Hezbollah militants in Lebanon [5]. Zamir said the military will continue the mission to locate the enemy in the area [5].
The current operations are intended to secure the border and prevent further attacks from Hezbollah. The IDF continues to operate in the field as it seeks to neutralize threats that could impact northern Israeli communities.
“The IDF is prepared to renew fighting if required and remains in a state of constant readiness.”
The transition from airstrikes to ground operations in southern Lebanon indicates a shift in Israeli strategy toward creating a physical buffer zone. By crossing the Litani River and eliminating thousands of militants, the IDF is attempting to dismantle Hezbollah's infrastructure near the border to ensure long-term security for northern Israel.
