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.

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“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.

Heavy smoke of Israeli air raids billows from the southern Lebanese border town Khiam on Monday. Photo: Stringer / dpa
Heavy smoke of Israeli air raids billows from the southern Lebanese border town Khiam on Monday. Photo: Stringer / dpa

Israel launched small ground raids against Hezbollah as it prepares for a larger ground operation in Lebanon, officials said on Monday.

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