JERUSALEM, Israel: The Israeli military announced on Tuesday that operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon have been “approved and validated,” amid ongoing cross-border exchanges with the Hezbollah.
Senior Israeli military officials conducted a situational assessment in the Northern Command, which led to the approval of these plans and decisions to enhance troop readiness in the field.
Since the Gaza conflict was triggered by Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7, Hezbollah, a Hamas ally, and Israel have been trading near-daily fire. This escalation prompted Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz to warn Hezbollah of severe consequences in the event of a “total war.” Katz stated that Hezbollah would be destroyed, and Lebanon would suffer significant damage if such a war broke out.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also affirmed that the Israeli military is prepared for a substantial operation in Lebanon if required, emphasizing the government’s commitment to restoring security along the northern border. In an effort to reduce tensions, US special envoy Amos Hochstein visited Lebanon on Tuesday following discussions with Israeli leaders, aiming for “urgent” de-escalation on the Israel-Lebanon border.
