This announcement comes in the wake of harsh statements made by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz last night, in which he threatened to target the capital, Beirut, if Hezbollah launches rockets at the northern settlements.
In an interview with the same channel, Katz stated that Israel is “working against any threat,” and indicated that the United States relies on the Lebanese government to disarm Hezbollah, while Israel continues its field operations.
The Israeli minister also clarified that his country is “preparing the atmosphere” to give the Lebanese side an opportunity to act on this matter, “but without stopping the attacks,” adding that the Israeli army has launched deep raids inside Lebanese territory, resulting in the killing of “about 300 Hezbollah members” since the ceasefire agreement was concluded.
These developments coincide with a continuous escalation in the south, including Israeli raids and exchange of fire operations, amid continuous American efforts led by envoy Tom Brack, who called for “understandings that guarantee security on both sides of the border,” while stressing the need to accelerate Lebanese efforts to control weapons.
