ALBAWABA - There are reports that Israel is preparing for a ground attack in southern Lebanon, which might escalate the situation.
American media sources that Israel is preparing to invade Lebanon, raising fears about the conflict's expansion. British and French authorities have urged Israel not to invade Lebanon.
A U.S. official told the Washington Post on Monday that Israel has notified Washington of preparations for a limited ground attack that may begin soon.
The person said this operation will concentrate on "clearing" Hezbollah facilities to reduce threats along the northern border and be smaller than Israel's 2006 conflict.
The U.S. source also underlined that Israel's ground operation matches with U.S. goals, as both nations agree to prevent a Gaza-like scenario in Lebanon.
A U.S. official verified Israel's announcement of a ground assault in southern Lebanon, perhaps beginning tonight, CBS said.
An Israeli official told the Washington Post that "limited operations" would be conducted in several Lebanon border communities.
Another U.S. source told CNN that Israel may launch a "limited" ground strike on southern Lebanon shortly but worried that it may expand into a broader military action.
A U.S. official told Al Jazeera that Israeli special forces had conducted limited operations in southern Lebanon to assess circumstances and prepare for a ground invasion. The official suggested Israel build a buffer zone to let northern people return safely.
On Monday, the Associated Press reported that the US had sent hundreds of soldiers and fighter planes to the Middle East to protect Israel.
A U.S. official told Reuters that an Israeli force buildup might lead to a ground invasion of Lebanon. The person, who requested anonymity, did not disclose any information regarding Israeli soldiers or the situation.
