Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered military forces to destroy all Hezbollah surface and underground infrastructure, including tunnels, to ensure the group is fully disarmed. This directive accompanies the establishment of a 620-square-kilometer security zone in southern Lebanon, which Lebanese officials characterize as an illegal occupation of their territory.
Why is Israel refusing to withdraw troops from the Lebanese border?
Netanyahu stated that Israel will not withdraw its army from the border region until Hezbollah is completely disarmed and no longer poses a threat to Israeli security. His current strategy focuses on the creation of a buffer and security zone between Hezbollah and northern Israel.
During a meeting with soldiers, Netanyahu issued a direct command to leave no infrastructure behind. He emphasized that troops must target all surface and underground assets used by the group for attacks. He also instructed soldiers to react immediately if they encounter any threats to their lives.
The military objective remains the total neutralization of Hezbollah’s ability to launch strikes. Netanyahu identified the group as the most critical component of Iran’s proxy axis, suggesting that the security of the border depends on the total removal of these capabilities.
How has Hezbollah’s arsenal changed during the conflict?
Netanyahu reported a significant depletion in Hezbollah’s strike capabilities. According to Netanyahu, the group originally possessed an arsenal of 150,000 rockets and shells. Current estimates provided by Netanyahu suggest that only approximately 8% of those munitions remain.
In addition to the reduction in rocket stockpiles, Netanyahu claimed that Israeli forces have killed approximately 9,000 terrorists in Lebanon. These figures highlight the intensity of the ongoing military operations aimed at degrading the group’s combat effectiveness.
The security zone currently established by Israel covers roughly 620 square kilometers, which accounts for about 6% of the total land area of Lebanon.
What is the status of the disputed security zone in Lebanon?
The establishment of the security zone has created a significant diplomatic and legal conflict between Israel and the Lebanese government. While Israel views the area as a necessary buffer for national defense, Lebanese authorities view the move differently.
The Lebanese government and Hezbollah have characterized the Israeli-controlled area as an occupation. They argue that the unilateral creation of this zone constitutes a violation of international law. This tension suggests that the border region will remain a flashpoint for legal and military disputes.
Lebanese media calculations place the size of the controlled zone at approximately 620 square kilometers. This territorial presence is a central point of contention in the ongoing regional instability.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to Benjamin Netanyahu, only about 8% of Hezbollah’s original 150,000 rockets and shells remain.
Lebanese media reports that the zone covers approximately 620 square kilometers, or about 6% of Lebanon’s territory.
Netanyahu has ordered soldiers to destroy all underground infrastructure, including tunnels, to prevent attacks on Israel.
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