The British magazine The Economist reported that Israel is preparing a ground operation in Lebanon, which includes establishing a “buffer zone” within Lebanese territory.
The magazine cited an Israeli reserve officer, familiar with the strategic plans regarding Lebanon, saying, “The ground invasion plans are ready, but we haven’t yet had enough forces here to implement them.”
It added that some Israeli officials suggest “taking advantage of the disarray within Hezbollah as quickly as possible, following the assassination of several of the group’s leaders.”
The British magazine further explained that “at the same time, other generals and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant support the current strategy, considering that Hezbollah might reassess its stance and refrain from bombarding Israeli territories.”
According to the magazine, despite Israel’s preparations and the recent escalation following the explosions of communication devices in Lebanon, there is no current talk of a full-scale war between Israel and Hezbollah. However, if extensive hostilities begin, Hezbollah could start using longer-range missiles to target central Israel and launch attacks on Israeli soil.
Earlier, Israeli Occupation Forces Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi confirmed on Sunday that the assassination of Hezbollah leaders sends a clear message to the entire Middle East, stating, “We will reach anyone who threatens Israeli citizens.”
Halevi added, “The Israeli army has heightened its readiness to the highest level. Last Friday, we struck the leadership hierarchy of Hezbollah’s elite force, including its prominent figure, Ibrahim Aqil. These leaders have, for many years, planned the occupation of the Galilee and are responsible for the deaths of many Israeli citizens and soldiers over the years.”
He continued, “We are pushing Hezbollah away from the border, which threatens Israeli citizens. We have eliminated over 600 operatives, many of whom are top Hezbollah commanders. The price Hezbollah is paying is constantly increasing, and our attacks will intensify.”
Halevi also mentioned, “In recent days, the Israeli army has attacked hundreds of targets in Lebanon. Today, Hezbollah once again fired toward the northern region,” promising to restore safety for residents and warning Hezbollah, “If they haven’t realized this yet, they will continue to be struck until they understand.”
