In Northern Israel, Soldiers Prepare for Extended Standoff with Hezbollah

Israeli soldiers stationed in the northern part of the country are bracing for an extended period of high tension with Hezbollah, situated across the border in Lebanon. This prolonged deployment follows weeks of near-daily exchanges of fire with the Iranian-supported group along the Israel-Lebanon border, which only recently subsided with the commencement of a truce with Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Yoshiahu, a 27-year-old captain and reservist, who left his family and engineering studies to join the frontline following Hamas’s major attack on Israel on October 7, shared insights with AFP during a military-organized tour. He spoke about the escalating intensity of the situation and the belief among the troops that their presence is crucial for the protection of the people in the area. The commitment of these soldiers to their duty is evident, as Yoshiahu emphasized their readiness to stay as long as necessary.

The so-called Blue Line, an approximately 80-kilometer demarcation outlined by the U.N. between Lebanon and Israel, has been patrolled extensively by Yoshiahu over the past two months. The area has witnessed sporadic exchanges of fire since the last major conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006, with a significant increase in incidents following the October 7 attack. Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for targeting Israeli soldiers and posts.

Israeli military concerns include incursions by armed militants and drones, with evidence of such activities already reported. The situation has led to the evacuation of almost all civilians living along the northern border, transforming communities like the Galilee kibbutz of Menara into near ghost towns.

Despite the ceasefire with Hamas reducing the intensity of fire exchanges in the north, the tension remains palpable. Soldiers stationed along the border emphasize their role in defending Israel, reflecting on the events of October 7 as a lesson in preparedness and vigilance.

The clashes between the Israeli army and Hezbollah have resulted in significant casualties on both sides of the border, with the majority of the 109 Lebanese deaths being combatants, including three journalists. On the Israeli side, the conflict has claimed the lives of at least nine individuals, six of them soldiers.

The troops express a deep sense of responsibility towards the remaining civilians in the area, understanding the expectation placed upon them for protection and safety.