Katz Warns Hezbollah: Playing with Fire, Lebanon’s President Delays
In a recent escalation of tensions, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Hezbollah, accusing the group of playing with fire amid ongoing developments in Lebanon. This warning, delivered within hours of a previous one, highlights the increasing military and political pressures in the region.
Katz’s Warnings and Accusations
Katz directly addressed Hezbollah, stating, “Hezbollah is playing with fire.” He also criticized the President of Lebanon for what he perceived as delays in addressing the situation. Katz emphasized that the Lebanese government must fulfill its obligations by disarming Hezbollah and removing it from southern Lebanon. He declared that Israel would deepen its policy of applying maximum measures in Lebanon to prevent any threat to the northern population.
Military Actions and Threats
The warnings come amid heightened military activity in Lebanon. Katz threatened to target Beirut again if Hezbollah attempts to fire on any settlement in northern Israel. He mentioned that he had informed Morgan Ortagus and Tom Barrack about the situation.
In response to a question about a potential new round of conflict between Lebanon and Israel, Katz stated that Israel is working against any aggression. He noted that the United States believes the Lebanese government will disarm Hezbollah, and Israel is preparing the environment and giving them a chance to do so. Katz also highlighted that Israel has provided the Galilee with peace not seen in approximately twenty years.
Recent Attacks and Casualties
The Israeli military, as confirmed by Avichay Adraee, targeted a vehicle in the Doha Kfar Rumman area in the Nabatieh region on Saturday night, resulting in four fatalities and three injuries. Adraee, the spokesperson for the Israeli Army, announced that the attack eliminated four members of Hezbollah’s Radwan Force, including the force’s logistical support officer in southern Lebanon. The official stated that the officer was involved in transporting weapons and attempting to rebuild Hezbollah’s infrastructure in southern Lebanon. Three other members of the Radwan Force were also eliminated in the raid.
Escalating Tensions
The situation underscores the ongoing conflict and the potential for further escalation. The warnings and actions by Israel reflect a determination to protect its northern borders and pressure the Lebanese government to address the presence of Hezbollah.
Source: Annahar