Israel has launched 'ground raids' against Hezbollah in Lebanon, with troops crossing the border following a build-up of tanks and other armor in northern Israel. The Lebanese army is pulling back troops stationed on its southern border. The Israeli government has pledged to make it safe for tens of thousands of its citizens to return to their homes after nearly a year of cross-border fighting. Hezbollah's deputy chief said the group is ready for an Israeli ground offensive and described their attacks on Israel so far as the 'minimum'. Lebanese officials say more than 1,000 people have been killed in the past two weeks.