The move is a blistering escalation in its fight against Hezbollah and one that threatens to engulf the Middle East in all-out war. 

The Israeli army confirmed it has launched “limited, localised and targeted ground raids” against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

The escalation was the culmination of a series of blows dealt by Israel. 

From blowing up Hezbollah’s communication devices and weapon depots to wiping out most of the group’s top commanders, including longtime leader Hassan Nasrallah.

But despite the setbacks, Hezbollah, who began firing rockets into Northern Israel after the outbreak of the war in Gaza nearly 12 months ago, says its fighters stand ready. 

Israel says its goal is to allow 60,000 displaced Israelis to return to their homes near the Lebanese border.

Over the past few days, Israel has struck its enemies on multiple fronts: Hamas in Gaza, the Houthis in Yemen, and Hezbollah in Lebanon. 

All are backed by Iran, whose residents the Israeli PM addressed directly overnight. 

“There is nowhere in the Middle East Israel can not reach. There is nowhere we will not go to protect our people and protect our country. With every passing moment, the regime is bringing you, the noble Persian people, closer to the abyss,” Benjamin Netanyahu said.

But aid groups are warning Israel’s offensive is setting off a sprawling humanitarian disaster in Lebanon. More than 1 million civilians have already been displaced as the risk of an all-out, region-wide war, inches closer.