Amid the increasing rocket fire from Hezbollah, Israeli officials estimate that the group is preparing for a prolonged campaign, an Israeli source told The Jerusalem Post.
In recent days, the attacks on northern Israel have not stopped. Anti-tank missile incidents targeting IDF positions along the northern border have also continued. Among many Israeli officials and foreign diplomats, the question being asked is: “What is the terrorist organization trying to achieve with this move, which seems completely illogical?”
While officials in Lebanon say they want to pursue a diplomatic initiative and hold talks with Israel, the United States is reportedly angered by the Lebanese government’s conduct. According to a source who spoke with The Post, Washington believes Lebanon is not acting firmly enough against Hezbollah and is therefore, at least for now, “pouring cold water” on the Lebanese proposal.
A Western diplomat told The Post that Hezbollah believes it has reached a point where it has nothing to lose. “In light of Iran’s weakening, the removal of members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps from Lebanon, and the blocking of financial transfers to Hezbollah, the organization feels it has reached a point where it must act.”
Two Israeli officials told The Post that Hezbollah aims to deter the Lebanese government from taking action against it by demonstrating its capabilities. At the same time, it is trying to pressure Israel into withdrawing from its line of military positions inside Lebanese territory.
On Monday, Israel hinted that the IDF would make Hezbollah pay a price for the attacks on Israel. Defense Minister Israel Katz, during a visit to Northern Command, said: “Not only will we not withdraw in the face of Hezbollah, but we will seize the opportunity to strike it.” On Monday evening, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a meeting with senior security officials and Defense Minister Katz to discuss the war with Iran and the fighting in Lebanon.