The Israeli military expressed worries about Hezbollah’s involvement in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, labeling it an “existential threat” to the country. IDF International Spokesperson Lt Ben Cohen highlighted that Hezbollah’s entry into the conflict underscored Iran’s significant influence over regional militant groups. Cohen emphasized the need to prevent threats to Israeli civilians by targeting specific Hezbollah terrorist sites.
Israel’s response to the situation involves a dual strategy of conducting targeted military operations and implementing defensive measures to protect civilians along the northern border. Cohen mentioned the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents near the Lebanese border last year due to escalating tensions with Hezbollah. Currently, Israel maintains a forward defensive posture of IDF forces in southern Lebanon to safeguard civilians in the north.
Regarding Hamas, Cohen noted the group’s continuous hostile actions despite recent ceasefire arrangements. He clarified that Israel has responded to Hamas violations of the ceasefire agreement while maintaining its adherence to the terms. Cohen also highlighted Israel’s preparedness for potential involvement of other Iran-backed groups in the conflict, similar to Hezbollah’s participation.
In recent developments, the Israeli military announced targeting Hezbollah command centers in Beirut through overnight airstrikes. These command centers, including one linked to Hezbollah’s aerial forces responsible for drone strikes on Israel, were aimed at thwarting terrorist operations against IDF personnel and Israeli citizens. Prior to the airstrikes, evacuation alerts were issued for Lebanese civilians in the vicinity.
