Israel is considering a ground incursion into Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, and an Israeli source said that “no immunity [will be granted] for any politician or military figure in Hezbollah, and even for its supporters.”

The IDF said it will not evacuate the northern part of Israel, vowing to protect Israeli civilians from the front instead. However, the IDF issued evacuation notices to 53 Lebanese villages across the border.

“My message is clear; we will not evacuate you, we will continue to protect you from the front,” Northern Command Chief Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo stated Monday morning, explaining that Israel had prepared for an extensive ground operation in Lebanon.

“Hezbollah’s activity has compelled the IDF to operate in the area,” said IDF spokesperson Ella Waweya, speaking in Arabic. “The IDF does not seek to harm civilians. For your safety, leave your homes immediately and move at least 1,000 meters away from the villages into open areas. Anyone near Hezbollah operatives, positions, or weapons is putting their life at risk.”

The IDF also indicated that Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s leader, is a target in the military campaign against Lebanon. Defense Minister Yisrael Katz explicitly named the secretary-general of the terrorist group and warned that Hezbollah “will pay a heavy price” for its attacks against Israel.

“Anyone who follows in Khamenei’s path will soon find himself alongside him in the depths of hell with the rest of the eliminated members of the axis of evil,” Katz said. “We will not return to the rules of engagement that existed before October 7. We will defend the residents of the north and all citizens of Israel with full force.”

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir added that Israel must be prepared for a prolonged campaign.

“We have launched an offensive campaign against Hezbollah,” he said. “We must prepare for multiple days of fighting. We need strong defensive readiness and waves of attack, while taking advantage of opportunities.”

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam slammed the operation.

“Regardless of who is behind the rocket fire from southern Lebanon, this is a reckless and suspicious act that endangers Lebanon’s security and gives Israel an excuse to continue attacks against Lebanon,” he said. “We will not allow the country to be dragged into new adventures. We will take all necessary measures to stop these operations and protect the Lebanese people.”