Israeli Military Chief Threatens Hezbollah with Immediate Strikes

Israeli Military Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir on Wednesday threatened an "immediate and strong" response to any attempt by Hezbollah to rebuild its military capabilities or threaten Israeli towns near the Lebanese border. Zamir emphasized the military's readiness to conduct attacks on both near and distant fronts, amid ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon and warnings of renewed war with Iran and its potential impact on the Lebanese front.

Zamir's statements, according to an Israeli military statement, were made during a tour of the Northern Command and the 91st Division, which included the Khiam area in southern Lebanon. He was accompanied by Northern Region Commander Rafi Milo, the Ground Forces commander, the 91st Division commander, and other officers. Zamir stated that the military "will not allow Hezbollah to establish terrorist infrastructures in the area," adding that "any attempt by the enemy to entrench its presence, strengthen its power, or threaten northern towns will be met with an immediate and strong response." He stressed that the Israeli military "is preparing for developments on near and distant fronts and is ready to strike any enemy that tries to harm us, as we have done in the past."

Zamir's threats come as the Israeli military continues its attacks on Lebanese territory. Israeli assessments suggest a potential for a renewed military confrontation with Iran, with concerns about Hezbollah's involvement. During his visit, Zamir reviewed the military situation with the 91st Division and discussed military and technological measures being developed. He described the 91st Division as the "front defense line for the residents of the North," operating with a concept of deploying forces in advanced positions ahead of Israeli towns.

Zamir accused Hezbollah of acting as an extension of Iran, stating that the party "proved again during the war that it is an Iranian arm, not a Lebanese nationalist one," and that its operations have harmed Lebanon's interests and citizens. He claimed that the Northern Command has been targeting Hezbollah for three years, degrading its military capabilities. "If necessary, we will know how to deepen our achievements," he added, praising the 91st Division and its forces.

The military also showcased a new robotic combat team, demonstrated by the 769th Brigade and the 869th Reconnaissance and Intelligence Battalion. This model utilizes robotic and technological means alongside ground forces to enhance operational effectiveness and reduce soldier risk. Zamir described it as a "significant qualitative leap" and directed the acceleration of integrating robotic capabilities into combat units to achieve operational superiority.

Zamir's remarks follow reports that Israel, via American mediation, conveyed demands to the Lebanese government for the Lebanese army to redeploy and establish barriers in areas where Hezbollah elements are present. These demands are reportedly driven by fears that Hezbollah might open a military front with Israel if a war with Iran resumes. Israeli media reported that the Israeli Air Force has intensified strikes on alleged Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon in recent weeks, particularly in areas not covered by the Lebanese army's deployment.