Israel Forces ‘Go Into Action’ Soon at Lebanon Border: Minister

Defense News ,Israel :- Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared on Monday that Israeli troops would soon be taking action near the northern border with Lebanon, intensifying the already heightened tensions amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

Addressing troops near the Gaza Strip, Gallant informed them that additional forces were being deployed to Israel's north, stating, "They will very soon go into action, reinforcing the forces in the north."

He emphasized the strategic shift of forces, indicating that troops near Gaza would be moving towards the north and preparing for future operations. Gallant also mentioned the gradual release of reservists to ensure readiness for upcoming endeavors.

Since the commencement of hostilities between Hamas and Israel on October 7, the Lebanese-Israeli border has witnessed frequent exchanges of fire between the Israeli army and Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah, a Hamas ally.

Hezbollah claimed responsibility for at least 12 attacks on Israeli army positions near the border, utilizing Iranian-made Falaq-1 and Burkan missiles. In response, the Israeli army conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanese areas, including Markaba, Taybeh, and Maroun al-Ras.

Israeli army chief Herzi Halevi had previously stated that the likelihood of war on the northern border had significantly increased. He mentioned, "The likelihood of it happening in the coming months is much higher than it was in the past."

The conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides, with more than 200 individuals, mostly Hezbollah members, killed in south Lebanon by Israeli fire, according to AFP. On the Israeli side of the border, nine soldiers and six civilians have lost their lives, as confirmed by Israeli officials.

Gallant acknowledged on Monday that Gaza militants were facing shortages of supplies and ammunition but emphasized that the war against Hamas is expected to persist for months.