Lebanon Offensive Update: Insights from Lieutenant Colonel Gidi Harari

Lebanon Offensive Update: Insights from Lieutenant Colonel Gidi Harari

Antonio Graceffo

Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon has resulted in the elimination of approximately 300 Hezbollah militants, including senior commanders.

The IDF targeted Hezbollah’s infrastructure in Beirut, including weapons depots and command centers, while also uncovering their tunnel network in southern Lebanon used for arms smuggling.

These operations have weakened Hezbollah’s capacity to strike Israel, though the group has launched counterattacks in response. Meanwhile, Iran has vowed retaliation, particularly for the assassinations of key figures like Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, signaling continued regional tensions.

Until just a few weeks ago, Hezbollah leaders were calling for Israel’s destruction. However, following the pager bombings and the ground offensive, they are now asking for a ceasefire. Despite this, Israel remains uninterested, and the offensive continues.

According to IDF Lieutenant Colonel Gidi Harari, speaking at an Israel Defense and Security Forum (ISDF) briefing, one key reason for Israel’s incursion into Lebanon is to push back Hezbollah’s military presence and secure the northern border.

This operation is crucial for facilitating the return of around 60,000 Israeli residents evacuated due to Hezbollah’s rocket attacks and cross-border incursions.

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