Israeli Security Cabinet Empowers Netanyahu and Gallant to Determine Golan Heights Response

Israel’s emergency security cabinet has given Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant the authority to determine the “nature” and “timing” of the response against Hezbollah. This decision follows a rocket attack in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights on Saturday, which resulted in the deaths of 12 children and teenagers. Israel holds the Lebanese militant group responsible for the attack, although Hezbollah denies any involvement.

Lebanon’s caretaker Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib mentioned receiving assurances from third-party countries, including the US and France, indicating that Israel’s response would be limited.

This incident marks the deadliest attack on Israel or its controlled territories since the October 7 assault by Hamas, leading Israel to vow that Hezbollah will “pay the price.” The strike has heightened fears of a potential all-out war in the region. Iran, a major supporter of Hezbollah, has cautioned against any further military actions targeting Lebanon. Bou Habib also stated that Lebanon would not engage in a war but would support Hezbollah and warned that other regional actors, including those in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen, might become involved.