Gallant: We Won’t Cease Fire Even if Hezbollah Does

On Monday, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Israel would not stop military actions on the Lebanese border without certain assurances. Gallant emphasized to his French counterpart that Israel’s ceasefire would only occur once the safety and return of residents in northern Israel are secured.

Gallant also issued a caution, noting that while conflict in the north would be challenging for Israel, it would result in even greater destruction for Hezbollah and Lebanon.

Recent cross-border hostilities have resulted in significant casualties and displacement. In Lebanon, the conflict has claimed approximately 200 lives over the past three months. This figure includes around 145 Hezbollah combatants and more than 20 civilians, with three journalists among the deceased. On the Israeli side, the conflict has led to the deaths of nine soldiers and six civilians, as reported by Israeli authorities.

The skirmishes have forced tens of thousands of people to flee their homes on both sides of the border. The Israeli government has expressed a strong desire to facilitate the return of its settlers to their homes and is prepared to undertake a military campaign if necessary to achieve this goal.