The Israeli military confirmed it had launched a limited ground offensive in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions near the border.

Units from the 91st Division carried out "limited and targeted operations against Hezbollah infrastructure in border areas." The goal is to push Hezbollah fighters further from the Israeli border and establish an expanded security buffer zone for residents of northern Israel.

Before deploying ground forces, Israel conducted intensive airstrikes and artillery bombardment of Hezbollah positions. The 146th Reserve Division is operating in western southern Lebanon, while the 36th Division is active in the Rab al-Talatin region.

Israel plans to deploy additional forces and expand the buffer zone. The escalation comes amid heightened regional tensions stemming from the broader Middle East conflict and Hezbollah attacks on Israeli territory.

French President Macron stated that Lebanon is ready for direct negotiations with Israel in Paris, offering a plan to end hostilities.