IDF Bolsters Lebanon Border Amid Hezbollah Guerrilla War Fears

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are reinforcing their presence in southern Lebanon and curtailing troop leave, anticipating that Hezbollah will continue to rebuild its military capabilities and potentially engage in more active guerrilla warfare. This assessment, reported by Maariv military correspondent Avi Ashkenazi, suggests Hezbollah is covertly restoring its strength, even in areas beyond the "blue line" border. The IDF believes the organization remains committed to confronting Israel and retains the capacity for future actions.

IDF strategists anticipate Hezbollah may employ tactics such as deploying explosive devices and utilizing explosive-laden drones. Attacks on Israeli military posts are also considered a possibility. In response, the 91st Division is enhancing its defenses and combat readiness, particularly ahead of an upcoming holiday period. Military officials emphasize that these measures stem from a general assessment of the adversary's intentions rather than specific intelligence about an imminent attack, noting, "There is no quiet and no routine."

Concurrently, the 91st Division is preparing for a new offensive operation in southern Lebanon. The approaching foggy season is expected to create favorable conditions for Israeli units, facilitating deployment, observation, and patrols in high-risk zones. Recent drone attacks have heightened concerns, including one incident that led to the evacuation of residents from the village of Deir ez-Zaharani, which the IDF cited as a violation of the ceasefire agreement.