Israel's military chief hinted at the possibility of a ground offensive in Lebanon on Wednesday, as hostilities with Hezbollah intensified via increased airstrikes targeting sites across Lebanon.
General Herzi Halevi, Israel's Chief of Staff, addressed troops near the Lebanon border, stating that air operations would continue as a preparatory measure for a potential ground entry.
"We have been striking all day... to prepare the ground for your possible entry and to continue degrading Hezbollah," Halevi said.
While the conflict intensifies, efforts are underway to prevent a wider war. The U.S. and France are spearheading a diplomatic push to de-escalate tensions, with discussions taking place at the UN General Assembly in New York.
U.S. President Joe Biden acknowledged the possibility of an all-out war but stressed that diplomatic solutions were still possible. "We're still in play to have a settlement that can fundamentally change the whole region," Biden said.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continued to widen airstrikes across Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon, including the Bekaa Valley. The IDF has also targeted new areas such as the beach resort of Jiyyeh, south of Beirut, and the village of Joun in the Chouf district.
In response to the escalating conflict, Israel called up two additional reserve brigades for operations on its northern border.
"This will enable the continuation of combat against Hezbollah... and create the conditions for residents of northern Israel to return to their homes," the IDF said.
Hezbollah fired missiles aimed at Israeli targets, including an attack on what it claimed was the headquarters of Mossad near Tel Aviv. Hezbollah stated the attack was in support of Palestinians in Gaza and in defense of Lebanon.
The conflict has already caused significant civilian displacement in Lebanon, with many fleeing the border regions.
Lebanon is experiencing its worst civilian toll since its civil war ended in 1990. Israeli airstrikes killed more than 550 people in a single day earlier this week.
On Wednesday, Lebanese authorities reported at least 51 deaths and over 223 injuries.
French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking at the UN General Assembly, emphasised the need to avoid a full-scale war in Lebanon. He announced the dispatch of Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot to Lebanon to support diplomatic efforts.
France, which has historical ties with Lebanon, has been working alongside the U.S. to broker an interim agreement to halt the fighting.
While the U.S. is involved in diplomatic efforts, Pentagon officials have denied any direct involvement in Israel's military actions in Lebanon. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh stated that no US intelligence or support has been provided for Israel’s Lebanon operations.