Israeli commanders recommend preemptive strike on Lebanon

Israeli military commanders reportedly recommended a preemptive strike on Lebanon rather than waiting for a retaliation from Hezbollah, according to Channel 13 television. This recommendation was reportedly made in the context of escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

The proposal for an offensive operation was ultimately rejected by Israeli officials following internal evaluations. Meanwhile, Israeli state television KAN has reported that the Tel Aviv government is anticipating a potential Iranian response targeting military sites, which is expected to be “stronger” than the attack on April 13.

Since Oct. 7, 2023, Israel has been conducting airstrikes on the Gaza Strip and has been engaged in conflicts with Hezbollah along its northern border. The situation intensified following an Israeli airstrike on Fuad Shukur, a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut, and the assassination attempt on Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

Both Iran and Hezbollah have threatened retaliation against Israel, blaming the country for the attack on Haniyeh.