Next phase of war will begin soon, says Israeli defence minister

The next phase of the war along the southern border of Lebanon is set to begin soon, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said on Monday, as at least two US newspapers reported that special forces may have already made short incursions.

“The next stage in the war against Hezbollah will begin soon,” Gallant told a meeting of local council heads in northern Israel, according to a statement from his office. He said the next phase would contribute to achieving the war aim of returning residents evacuated from the area to their homes.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon is referring reporters to Israel about whether an Israeli ground incursion into Lebanon is imminent.

The US is sending an additional “few thousand” troops to the Middle East to bolster security and to be prepared to defend Israel if necessary, the Pentagon said on Monday.

The increased presence will come from multiple fighter jet squadrons, Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh told reporters.