Israel announces 'new phase' in conflict following Hezbollah pager assaults

The IDF is repositioning troops towards Lebanon following an Israeli operation that reportedly injured thousands of Hezbollah fighters, as stated by Yoav Gallant. Read Full Article at RT.com

Israel announces 'new phase' in conflict following Hezbollah pager assaults
Israel is reallocating its military forces to better address threats from Hezbollah, according to Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. He confirmed the strategic shift during a discussion at the Ramat David Airbase near Haifa, highlighting the redirection of military attention from Hamas to Hezbollah.

“The center of gravity is moving north. We are diverting forces, resources, and energy toward the north,” Gallant detailed in an announcement shared on his social media.

Hezbollah has maintained a tense standoff with Israel following the Israeli military operations in Gaza that started almost a year ago. The group's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, aims to distract Israeli forces to the northern border, thereby minimizing their presence in Gaza. In response, Israeli officials, including Gallant, have periodically mentioned the possibility of a significant military incursion into Lebanon.

In recent developments, a deadly incident involving the detonation of pagers linked to Hezbollah operatives occurred, reportedly as part of an Israeli initiative. This operation led to casualties and highlighted the escalating tensions. Another series of explosions targeted handheld devices the following day, compounding the impact and casualties.

The Israeli actions appear tied to preparations disclosed by Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz two months prior, indicating readiness for heightened conflict with Hezbollah. Both incidents of explosions have been linked to Mossad by various sources, suggesting a preemptive strike strategy.

Hezbollah has formally accused Israel of these attacks, warning of severe consequences. Meanwhile, the Israeli military's 98th Division has already been moved from Gaza to northern positions, aligning with Gallant's statements about focusing on the northern threat.

Global and regional observers are closely monitoring these developments, which could potentially lead to further military engagements between Israel and Hezbollah.

Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News