According to an Israeli official, restoring normal life in northern Israel is key to achieving a lasting victory over Hezbollah. The IDF Chief of the General Staff, LTG Herzi Halevi, stated that while Israel has already achieved military victory, true long-term success lies in a thriving northern Israel with a robust civilian population, robust tourism, and flourishing businesses. This, he emphasized, requires significant government support.

LTG Halevi conducted a situational assessment in southern Lebanon, joined by MG Ori Gordin, BG Yiftach Norkin, COL Omri Rosenkrantz, and other senior officers.

A month-long ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has been in effect since November 27th. Israeli forces have undertaken operations to dismantle Hezbollah’s infrastructure and command centers. These operations, which have included airstrikes, primarily focused on southern Lebanon, but recently expanded to the Bekaa Valley.

Israeli officials allege that Hezbollah is attempting to test Israel’s resolve by smuggling weapons across the Lebanese-Syrian border. Thousands of Israelis fled border villages after Hezbollah, in coordination with Hamas, launched rockets into Israel, prompting a strong Israeli military response that significantly weakened Hezbollah and compelled concessions.