Israel has made the safe return of residents to its northern regions a key war objective, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office.
The decision was made by the Security Cabinet late Monday, as roughly 60,000 people have been evacuated due to daily attacks by Iran-backed Hezbollah militants from Lebanon.
The cross-border fighting intensified on October 8, 2023, a day after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, with Hezbollah launching attacks in solidarity with Palestinians.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that military action may be the only way to ensure the safe return of northern residents, as Hezbollah continues to align with Hamas and escalate hostilities.
Gallant’s remarks came amid speculation of tensions between him and Netanyahu over differing views on the Gaza conflict.
