Israeli defence minister promises full-scale action against Hezbollah

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that “Israel's policy in Lebanon was and remains clear: the ultimate goal is to dismantle Hezbollah's weaponry through military and political means—regardless of the Iran issue.”

Katz made the remarks during a situation assessment at the Pit, Ynet reports.

According to the minister, “The border villages in Lebanon, which serve as Hezbollah outposts for all intents and purposes, will be destroyed according to the Rafah and Khan Younis model in Gaza.”

Katz’s comments appear to contradict the Israeli Defense Forces’ position. The IDF has previously indicated that dismantling Hezbollah’s arsenal would require control over the entirety of Lebanon—a far more extensive military undertaking than the minister’s statement suggests.

By Vafa Guliyeva