The IDF expanded its ground maneuvers in southern Lebanon last night (Saturday and Sunday). Before entering the new areas, artillery attacks were carried out to destroy traps and IEDs in the area, according to Channel 14.
It was reported that during the expansion of the ground operation in Lebanon, echoes of explosions could be heard in many areas in the Western Galilee and northern Israel as a result of IDF fire.
This was done despite and concurrently with an official statement issued tonight by the US Department of Defense in which it was claimed that Minister Lloyd Austin, during a conversation with Defense Minister Yoav Galant, demanded a stop to military operations in Lebanon and making efforts to reach diplomatic solutions.
"The secretary strongly emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of UNIFIL and Lebanese military forces and reinforced the need to move from military operations in Lebanon to a diplomatic track as soon as possible," the statement said.