IDF Reveals Ground Operation Orders from 2006 Lebanon War After 20 Years

On the 20th anniversary of the 2006 Lebanon War, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) disclosed the original operational order and the announcement expanding ground maneuvers during the conflict. The operational order, initially titled "Just Reward," was issued on July 13, 2006, a day after the abduction of reserve soldiers Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev. It detailed the kidnapping of two IDF soldiers in the Zar'it sector along the Lebanon border during a large-scale Hezbollah attack that also harmed Israeli civilians. The order noted that eight IDF soldiers were killed and several wounded in the western sector. It also described Israeli Air Force strikes in southern Lebanon and preparations for heavy Katyusha rocket fire on Israeli territory starting that morning.

The announcement on August 12, 2006, declared the expansion of the IDF's ground operations toward the Litani River area, following a cabinet decision. It stated that Israeli ground forces, supported by air and naval units, would operate in regions from which rockets were launched into Israel. The objective was to reduce rocket attacks on northern Israeli residents and intensify damage to Hezbollah.

Additionally, the article referenced a memorial ceremony for fallen soldiers of the Lebanon War, including remarks from the mother of Staff Sergeant Keren Tendler, expressing fear that her daughter's memory might be forgotten. President Herzog also participated in the event, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the fallen.