Official announcements from the Israeli government or credible news sources like Reuters, BBC, or Al Jazeera

Netanyahu Orders Major Operation Against Hezbollah, Cites Iran and West Bank Threats

Sep 8, 2024, 10:52 AM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the military and defense establishment to prepare for a major operation against Hezbollah in Southern Lebanon. This decision follows a series of escalations, including a terrorist attack at the Allenby Bridge that resulted in the deaths of three Israeli citizens. Netanyahu emphasized the need to ensure the safety of northern Israel's residents and return them to their homes. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has urged Netanyahu to expand the war goals to include defeating terror groups in the West Bank. IDF officials have attributed the escalation of violence in the West Bank to ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich. Netanyahu also highlighted the threat posed by Iran, describing it as leading a 'murderous ideology' and an 'axis of evil.'