Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized the need to expand Israel's goals in the ongoing conflict in Gaza to include the safe return of Israelis to their homes in the north, which were evacuated due to attacks by Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. In a strategic briefing with IDF officials, Gallant highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety of northern communities and expressed the intention to raise this issue with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Cabinet.
Gallant stressed that broadening Israel's objectives in the war would not detract from the primary goal of dismantling Hamas and securing the release of Israeli hostages. The conflict in Gaza was triggered by an assault by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, followed by Hezbollah's involvement in escalating tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.
As a result of the heightened security risks, several border towns in northern Israel were evacuated, leaving residents displaced. Gallant acknowledged the challenges faced by these communities and underscored the importance of their safe return to their homes.
During the meeting with military officials, Gallant reviewed the progress made in Gaza, where Israel's focus remains on ousting Hamas and securing the release of Israeli captives. The situation in the region remains volatile, with the potential for a wider conflict looming as tensions persist between Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah.
