Israeli Minister Yitzhak Veselov Calls Lebanon Pilot Program Naive, Urges Military Action Against Hezbollah

Israeli Minister Yitzhak Veselov sharply criticized the pilot program involving the Lebanese government and military, describing it as naive during an interview on the Open Studio program. He expressed skepticism about Lebanon's ability to disarm Hezbollah, noting that Hezbollah representatives are part of the Lebanese government itself. Veselov stated that the only effective way to dismantle Hezbollah's military power is through direct action by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), dismissing other efforts as shortcuts and unrealistic hopes.

The minister emphasized that he plans to present his conclusions about the pilot program to Israel's security cabinet soon. He advocated for intensified military responses, including retaliatory strikes against Hezbollah for any hostile actions, such as drone incursions. Veselov concluded with a strong statement that "Beirut needs to burn," underscoring his call for increased military pressure in southern Lebanon.

This stance reflects ongoing tensions in the region, with Israel wary of Hezbollah's influence and military capabilities in Lebanon. The pilot program, intended to engage with Lebanese authorities, faces criticism from Israeli officials who doubt its feasibility and effectiveness in curbing Hezbollah's power.