Israeli Military Chief Threatens Hezbollah with Immediate Retaliation

Israeli Army Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has threatened an escalation of attacks against Hezbollah, vowing "immediate and strong" retaliation for any attempt by the group to enhance its military capabilities or threaten Israeli towns near the Lebanese border. Zamir emphasized that the army is preparing for potential escalation on "near and far fronts." These statements were made during a field tour of the Northern Command and the 91st Division, including the Khiam area in southern Lebanon, accompanied by Northern Region Commander Rafi Milo and other senior military officials. The tour occurred amidst ongoing Israeli strikes on Lebanese territory and Israeli assessments of a possible renewed confrontation with Iran, potentially involving Hezbollah.

Zamir stated, according to an IDF statement, that the army will not permit Hezbollah to establish military infrastructure in the region. He reiterated that any effort to consolidate the group's presence, strengthen its power, or threaten northern towns would be met with an immediate and forceful response. He confirmed the army's readiness for developments on all fronts and its preparedness to target any entity threatening Israel. During a military situation assessment at the 91st Division, Zamir met with brigade commanders, reviewing operational and technological plans and measures being developed by forces deployed in the area. He described the 91st Division as the "front defense line for the residents of the North," explaining that forward deployments before Israeli towns are part of the army's defensive concept along the Lebanese border.

He added that while field conditions are constantly changing, the army continues to build a strong border defense and maintain the security of northern Israelis. Zamir accused Hezbollah of acting as an extension of Iran and stated that the group has harmed Lebanon and its citizens through its military operations. He noted that the Northern Command has been targeting Hezbollah and reducing its military capabilities for three years, hinting at expanding operations by saying, "If necessary, we will know how to deepen our achievements."

The tour also included a demonstration of a new military model called the "Robotic Combat Team," developed 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 exposure to risks during combat missions. Zamir described the model as reflecting a trend toward using robotic technologies on the battlefield, providing an operational advantage and enhancing soldier protection. He directed the acceleration of integrating these capabilities into combat units.

Zamir's threats coincide with Israeli actions on the Lebanese front. Israeli media reported that Israel, through American mediation, conveyed demands to the Lebanese government regarding the redeployment of the Lebanese army and the establishment of checkpoints in areas suspected of harboring Hezbollah elements. An Israeli security official indicated these demands stem from Israeli concerns about Hezbollah opening a front if the war with Iran resumes, adding that Israel has threatened to resume extensive military operations in Lebanon if Hezbollah joins a new confrontation. Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah infrastructure, particularly in open areas not covered by the Lebanese army's deployment, have intensified in recent weeks. Israeli sources attribute the Lebanese army's limited presence in these areas to a lack of personnel, capabilities, and motivation.

Regarding the Iranian front, Israeli assessments suggest a potential US decision to resume attacks on Iran within days. This follows security talks between Israeli and American military officials over the weekend. The report raised the possibility of a joint US-Israeli operation if a confrontation reignites, potentially targeting nuclear and energy facilities in Iran. These Israeli moves in Lebanon signal preparations for a potential multi-front conflict, alongside ongoing Israeli attacks and negotiations between Beirut and Tel Aviv.