Hezbollah saw new war with Israel as inevitable and rearmed for months, sources say - Reuters

<a href="https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiwwFBVV95cUxQLVdXNHVZNkdaU3Jzem13WmdhM2NkZW1iVFV6SEJoaUlKVlJkdUt0SU1jNHdYbzVCbDkyUWxnR3lDZnhuSlFpRk45RlZSR09BZExGU0ZIMlhBSGdNV2t5LXJ4ZWxiZGRKX0pueHFHankwc0k2RG5kV3NXaGZNTGVZbG9pbk5GSDBkVWtzOTdGSFBFNkVFUkRQeUQ0MjFOd3M0TE4yVVFBcUVodXctR3o1N0hOWUNRRjhCOUFEb1E4bG5SU0U?oc=5" target="_blank">Hezbollah saw new war with Israel as inevitable and rearmed for months, sources say</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<font color="#6f6f6f">Reuters</font>

As of March 5, 2026, the Israeli military has launched a new ground offensive into southern Lebanon, with fierce clashes reported in the town of Khiam and nearby Dhaira. This marks a major escalation, following renewed hostilities since March 2. Israeli forces have advanced over one kilometer into Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions and border villages with airstrikes and artillery. Defense officials cite the goal of creating a buffer zone to prevent Hezbollah attacks on northern Israel, possibly extending their control as far as the Litani River. In response, the Lebanese army has retreated from the border strip, and UNIFIL confirmed Israeli presence in several villages. Over 83,000 Lebanese civilians have fled south Lebanon amid bombardments, which have left at least 72 dead and over 400 wounded. Hezbollah has responded with limited attacks, but its capabilities have been reduced since the 2024 war due to Israeli leadership assassinations and logistics disruptions via Syria. Domestically, Lebanon has banned Hezbollah’s armed wing, arrested fighters, and tightened border control. France and Lebanon have urged international mediation to restore a ceasefire, but Israel appears intent on militarily dismantling Hezbollah’s infrastructure across Lebanon.

As of March 3, 2026, Hezbollah has re-engaged militarily by intervening in the conflict between Iran and Israel following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This marks a return to its foundational role, closely aligned with Iran's interests, despite Lebanon's deteriorating situation and popular opposition. The move has triggered intense Israeli retaliation, killing 52 and displacing 30,000 people. Hezbollah's action has deepened its isolation: the Lebanese government has banned its military wing, with even allies like the Amal movement supporting disarmament. Analysts suggest Hezbollah’s decision reflects Iranian control, particularly by the IRGC, and internal divisions within the group, notably between hardliners and moderates advocating for 'Lebanonizing' the party. The Lebanese government’s ban is seen as a symbolic gesture to the international community, as enforcement remains difficult and risks civil strife. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes have expanded, and Hezbollah has launched new attacks on northern Israel, escalating the regional conflict.

U.S. President Donald Trump has ruled out negotiations with Iran unless it offers an 'unconditional surrender' and supports a new leadership deemed 'great and acceptable' by the U.S. This comes as Israel launches its heaviest airstrikes on Lebanon since the 2024 ceasefire, with over 95,000 fleeing Beirut and southern Lebanon. Simultaneously, Israeli and U.S. forces bombed Tehran and other Iranian cities, targeting Iran's military, leadership, and nuclear facilities. Iran retaliated with missile attacks across the Gulf region, resulting in civilian casualties in multiple countries and near U.S. bases.