Israel Aims to Counter Hezbollah Threat Along Northern Border
Jerusalem: Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that he has directed the military to further expand an existing security zone inside Lebanon. He made the statement during a visit to Israel’s northern command, underscoring continued military operations in the neighbouring country.
According to Netanyahu, the expansion aims to neutralise potential cross-border threats posed by Hezbollah fighters. He stated that the move would help prevent infiltration attempts and push anti-tank missile threats away from Israeli territory. Furthermore, Israeli forces continue targeted operations as part of a broader campaign against militant positions.
Netanyahu asserted that Hezbollah still retains limited capabilities to launch rocket attacks. However, he claimed that Israeli military action has significantly weakened the group’s operational strength.
Prime Minister Signals Confidence as Regional Dynamics Shift
Meanwhile, Netanyahu also commented on the broader regional landscape, referring to the changing positions of Iran and allied groups. He claimed that Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas no longer pose the same level of threat as before.
“These are no longer forces threatening our existence; they are weakened actors fighting for survival,” he said. In addition, Netanyahu expressed confidence in Israel’s military progress, emphasizing determination and continued operations.
Moreover, Israeli officials maintain that expanding the security zone will enhance border protection and reduce immediate risks to civilian areas. However, the move may further escalate tensions in an already volatile region.
As military activity continues, observers warn that developments along the Israel-Lebanon border could have wider implications for regional stability. Nevertheless, Israel has signaled its intention to sustain operations until it achieves its strategic objectives.
