Tensions continue to rise as Israeli officials hype up attacking neighboring Lebanon, saying they have an approved and validated plan for an all-out war. While talk of war isn’t new, Israel’s actions suggest war may be imminent.
Most recently, Israeli officials have ordered the evacuation of Jish, a small majority Christian town along the border. Jish is just a few miles from the Lebanon border, and the evacuation was presented as necessary because of the escalation of conflict.
Tens of thousands of Israelis have already been evacuated from the north and pushed deeper into the country, while nearly 100,000 Lebanese civilians have been displaced from southern Lebanon because of the incessant attacks.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant talked up readiness for the war, saying Israel is determined to change the situation in the north. He anticipates either a political settlement or an “extensive military operation,” saying that would allow the displaced to return to their homes.
Continuing its attacks, an Israeli drone strike was reported in Deir Kifa, in southern Lebanon, killing Fadel Ibrahim, claimed in an Israeli army statement to be a “Hezbollah commander.” Ibrahim was reportedly in charge of commanding ground forces around Jouaiyya.
Drone and airstrikes occur nearly daily in southern Lebanon, with Hezbollah commanders and infrastructure being the primary targets. It has been estimated that 374 Hezbollah figures have been killed in strikes since October.
