Beirut: The Israeli army announced on Thursday that it has intensified its ongoing ground offensive in southern Lebanon, continuing a series of deadly airstrikes amid rising regional tensions.

According to Anadolu Agency, a military statement revealed that the 162nd Division has now joined the 91st and 36th Divisions in the ongoing assault. The operation aims to establish a 'forward security zone' in southern Lebanon to mitigate what Israel identifies as 'immediate threats' and to provide an additional layer of security for residents in northern Israel.

Lebanese media outlets have reported limited incursions by Israeli forces into border towns such as Khiam, Odaisseh, Kfarkela, and Kfarchouba. However, Hezbollah has claimed that its fighters successfully repelled the advancing Israeli forces. The escalation in conflict follows a cross-border attack by Hezbollah on March 2, prompting Israel to respond with airstrikes and a ground offensive in southern Lebanon.

Lebanese authorities have reported that at least 1,116 people have been killed and 3,229 injured in these Israeli attacks. The situation has been further compounded by a joint US-Israeli offensive on Iran, which began on February 28 and has resulted in over 1,340 deaths. In response, Iran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, US bases, and Gulf countries.