The head of Israel’s military has stated that their forces are capable of targeting and destroying any village in Lebanon, escalating the rhetoric in the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah, the Iran-supported group situated across the border. This conflict, closely tied to the group’s alliance with Hamas in Gaza, has seen almost daily exchanges of fire since the Gaza war began on October 7.
In a statement to his troops stationed in Gaza, Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi expressed confidence in their ability to extend military operations into Lebanon if necessary. Drawing on their experience in Gaza, Halevi affirmed, as reported by the Israeli army, that there is no Lebanese village out of their reach following their performance in Gaza.
The recent escalation along the border has resulted in significant casualties. According to figures by AFP, 188 people have been killed in Lebanon, including 141 Hezbollah fighters and over 20 civilians, with three journalists among them. The Israeli side reports 14 fatalities, comprising nine soldiers.