The IDF Detected Hezbollah Preparations to Strike Israeli Territory
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced it has “proactively and broadly” begun striking Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon to eliminate threats poised against Israel. This decisive action follows the detection of Hezbollah’s preparations to launch missiles and rockets towards Israeli territory.
Why it Matters
This operation underscores Israel’s commitment to defending its homeland from imminent threats. In the face of escalating hostility, Israel’s proactive measures aim to safeguard its citizens and maintain stability in the region against the Hezbollah terrorist organization.
What They’re Saying
“We are removing threats against the Israeli home front,” IDF Spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated during a press briefing. “Dozens of [Israeli Air Force] jets are currently striking targets in various locations in southern Lebanon. We are continuing to remove threats, and to intensively strike against the Hezbollah terrorist organization.”
“Hezbollah is launching rockets and UAVs toward Israeli territory,” he continued. “Our aerial defense systems, the Israeli Navy’s ships, and IAF planes are part of the mission to defend Israel’s skies, identifying and intercepting threats, and striking any location in Lebanon required to neutralize and hit Hezbollah.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu Calls for Protection
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened with cabinet members, emphasizing the need to end the displacement of Israelis due to ongoing confrontations and reiterating Israel’s stance. “We are determined to do everything to protect our country, return the residents of the north safely to their homes, and uphold a simple rule: Whoever harms us, we will harm them,” he stressed.
Civilian Safety
IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari warned civilians in southern Lebanon of potential danger as Hezbollah’s activities endanger lives near their homes. Hagari reiterated that Israel has already intercepted several rockets and UAVs aimed at Israeli territory, ensuring their defenses remain robust.
International Diplomacy
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz urged global support for Israel’s actions against Hezbollah’s threats. Emphasizing Israel’s rights to protect its citizens, Katz condemned Hezbollah’s intentions and assured international counterparts that Israel’s objective is security and defense, not war. “We target terrorist infrastructure; they target civilians,” the IDF asserted on social media.
Emergency Situations and Dialogues
Israeli Defense Minister Gallant declared an Emergency Situation for 48 hours in response to the critical events, maintaining close dialogue with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. Both discussed avoiding regional escalation while ensuring the protection of Israeli citizens through whatever means necessary.
This story was first published on foxnews.com.