Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a warning that Israel is ready for significant action along the northern border with Lebanon, amidst ongoing tensions with Iran-backed Hezbollah militants.
Netanyahu's statement came during a visit to Kiryat Shmona, a city near the Lebanese border, where recent rocket fire from southern Lebanon caused large fires in the area.
During his visit, Netanyahu expressed gratitude for efforts to extinguish the fires and highlighted that Lebanon also faced similar challenges. He emphasized Israel's readiness to respond to threats from Lebanon, stating, 'Whoever thinks they can harm us and expect no retaliation is mistaken. We are prepared for intense action in the north to restore security.'
Recent clashes began when Hezbollah launched drones at an Israeli military command center in the Galilee, resulting in fires in northern Israel. Authorities have since brought the fires under control.
The back-and-forth exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah have raised concerns about a potential escalation to full-scale conflict, leading to the evacuation of tens of thousands of Israelis along the border.
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Major General Herzi Halevi also visited the area and affirmed the IDF's readiness to respond decisively if necessary. He stated, 'We are nearing a critical juncture where a decision may need to be made.'
