On Monday, an Israeli government official issued a stark warning to Hezbollah, which has been actively involved in daily border conflicts with Israel since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in October.
The Israeli Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, known for his far-right views, made it clear that Hezbollah could be the next target after Hamas if it escalates its attacks. Smotrich warned of severe consequences, including the potential devastation of Beirut and Lebanon.
This caution from Israeli authorities has been consistent since the start of these clashes. The confrontations have resulted in significant casualties. According to a report by AFP, over 120 individuals have died on the Lebanese side since October, predominantly Hezbollah combatants, but the count also includes more than a dozen civilians.
On the Israeli side, the conflict has claimed the lives of six soldiers and four civilians. Additionally, a Lebanese soldier was recently killed in these ongoing hostilities.