Gallant: Israel prefers diplomacy over war with Hezbollah

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that Israel is not actively seeking conflict with Hezbollah, preferring a diplomatic resolution, despite pressures from the far-right Otzma Yehudit party which threatened to exit the government should Israel avoid a full-scale military operation against the Iran-backed Lebanese faction.

Gallant confirmed that while Israel favors peace, it is also preparing for potential broader conflict, indicating that the next move depends on Hezbollah’s decisions.

His comments followed a heated cabinet discussion where Itamar Ben Gvir, leader of the Otzma Yehudit party and National Security Minister, openly criticized both Gallant and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for their support of negotiating with Hezbollah to prevent a war in the northern regions.

Addressing military personnel at an Iron Dome air defense system in northern Israel, Gallant outlined two key strategies for Lebanon: military preparedness and political negotiations, stressing the preference for the latter.

“We are prepared for war, but if Hezbollah opts for peace, we will engage in that direction,” Gallant explained, adding that the challenges facing Israel are significant, yet they are more burdensome for Hezbollah and Lebanon.

Referring to the ongoing situation and the losses inflicted on Hezbollah, Gallant highlighted the greater impact on the enemy, notably mentioning over 450 militants killed as a result of actions affecting Lebanon severely.

During a cabinet meeting which started late Thursday, Gallant relayed to the Americans Israel’s reluctance for war, suggesting a deal that would secure the northern border as a favorable outcome.

Ben Gvir challenged this approach, questioning the efficacy of past agreements and expressing concerns about future violations and attacks. He also resisted when Netanyahu showed inclination towards a diplomatic solution, emphasizing that any agreement must ensure the safety and return of northern residents.

Ben Gvir’s comparison of negotiating with Hezbollah to making deals with Nazis underlines his staunch opposition to any form of negotiation.

A fellow party member, Yitzhak Kroizer, later indicated that Otzma Yehudit might withdraw from the government if a military campaign in the north does not occur, suggesting the coalition’s survival hinges on the government’s handling of the situation with Hezbollah.

Otzma Yehudit, holding six seats in the Knesset, has previously made similar threats to leave the coalition, which would reduce the government below the majority needed to govern effectively.