Benjamin Netanyahu/Photo: Depositphotos
In response to the morning rocket attack on the city of Metula in northern Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz instructed the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) to strike “dozens of terrorist targets” in Lebanon. This was reported by The Times of Israel.
“The Lebanese government is fully responsible for everything that happens on its territory. Israel will not allow any harm to be done to its citizens and sovereignty, and will act in all available ways to ensure the security of the northern communities. The IDF is ready for any order,” the Israeli authorities said in an official statement.
According to Katz, the shelling of Metula was carried out by the Hizbullah terrorist group. The Defence Minister reminded that Israel has committed itself to ensuring the security of the residents of the Galilee:
“Metula’s law will be the same as the law in Beirut,” Katz said.
Diplomatic background: The US, Lebanon and the possibility of direct talks
Meanwhile, the Lebanese media report that diplomatic pressure from the United States is increasing. According to sources, Washington is allegedly threatening to stop putting pressure on Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon if Beirut does not agree to direct political negotiations with Israel on disputed border issues.
In response, Lebanon’s president took the initiative to hold consultations with the country’s parliament speaker to discuss further steps. Thus, Lebanon is looking for an alternative diplomatic scenario to avoid both direct confrontation and internal political destabilisation.
The situation on Israel’s northern border remains extremely tense. The IDF is on high alert, and the border areas are on high alert. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, fearing a possible expansion of the conflict beyond the Gaza Strip.
