19 Oct 2024 This dramatic combat footage, first shown on Israeli TV, reportedly shows IDF reservists battling Hezbollah militants, close to the entrance of a tunnel in southern Lebanon. After an exchange of gunfire, Israeli troops use grenades to enter the building… before a wounded soldier is evacuated. It shows the changing nature of the war since Israel’s ground invasion of the country began in early October. For months, the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah appeared limited to exchanges of missiles across the border. But now, engagements are being fought at much closer quarters. One of Israel’s stated aims is to destroy the Hezbollah tunnel network which allows militants to move unseen close to their border. Just like in Gaza, these tunnels also have the potential to allow small numbers of fighters to mount an effective guerilla resistance. In one clip, a suspected Hezbollah militant emerges from a tunnel shaft after a tense exchange with Israeli troops. Where possible, the IDF tries to take out opponents without putting its ground troops at risk, targetting the enemy with drones, for example. Unlike Hamas, Hezbollah have released only a few clips of their armed forces in frontline combat since the invasion began. Though they do occasionally release slick propaganda videos to show off their military capabilitie. One reportedly shows their elite Radwan forces in training, while another was published to mark one year of war with Israel. With more Israeli troops now entering Lebanon to increase the scope of their ground operations, it seems unlikely that this conflict will be resolved any time soon.
