Netanyahu's remarks heighten apprehensions of more conflict.
Ever since Hamas' assault on Israel a year ago, the nation has also faced attacks from Hisbollah, who're striking from Lebanon. With the violence showing no signs of slowing down, a potential decision from Israel regarding the situation looms near.
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in the wake of increasing military tension along the border with Lebanon, insisted upon the readiness of the Israeli army. "Anyone who thinks they can hurt us and we'll respond with inactivity is highly mistaken," he stated during a recent visit to the severely-affected town of Kiryat Shmona, according to his office. In this town where rocket and drone attacks from the Lebanese Hisbollah militia had caused fires in the recent past, he spoke with soldiers and firefighters. Netanyahu also claimed, "We are gearing up for a significant response in the northern part of our country."
The Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi announced that they're edging closer to when a choice needs to be made regarding Israel's approach to the recent escalated shelling by the Hisbollah. The military is fully prepared for making such a choice: "Strong defense, preparedness for an offensive, we're approaching the time of decision."
Ever since war commenced in the Gaza Strip almost eight months back, Israel's army has been having daily clashes with Hisbollah, along with other groups in the region of Israel and Lebanon's border. There have been casualties on both sides. Damage and fires have plagued nearby towns on both sides of the border. Some 150,000 individuals have been either evacuated or have abandoned the region due to the hostilities.
Hisbollah is allied with the Islamist Hamas in the Gaza Strip, although they're viewed as significantly more powerful. Israel is attempting to achieve a withdrawal of the Hisbollah past the Litani River, some 30 kilometers from the border, in agreement with a UN resolution. Unfortunately, it's unlikely that the Hisbollah will end their barrage as long as the conflict in Gaza continues.
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Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel's firm stance against Hezbollah's attacks from Lebanon, stating, "Anyone who underestimates our response is greatly mistaken." The ongoing conflicts between Israel and its adversaries, including Hezbollah, have led to frequent wars and tensions in the region.
