Israel aims to return residents to northern areas amid Hezbollah threats
- Israel's security cabinet has declared the safe return of northern residents as a new war objective amid ongoing Hezbollah attacks.
- Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that military action is necessary to achieve this goal, as Hezbollah remains aligned with Hamas.
- The U.S. has warned of the severe consequences of further escalation and urged for diplomatic negotiations.
Israel's security cabinet has officially set a new war objective to ensure the safe return of residents to northern areas, following mass evacuations due to ongoing attacks from Hezbollah. Approximately 60,000 individuals have been displaced since the escalation of cross-border fighting began on October 8, 2023, after a deadly Hamas attack on Israel. The Israeli government views military action as the only viable solution to restore safety and security in these regions. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that military intervention is necessary to achieve this goal, as Hezbollah's alignment with Hamas complicates the situation. The Israeli government has previously focused on eliminating Hamas and securing the release of hostages taken during the October 7 attack, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides. The U.S. has expressed concerns regarding the potential for further escalation, urging Israel to consider diplomatic negotiations and a ceasefire. U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin highlighted the dire consequences that continued conflict could have on the populations of Israel, Lebanon, and the broader region. Hezbollah, a powerful armed group in Lebanon, has not publicly responded to Israel's latest military threats. The situation remains tense as Israel prepares for possible military operations aimed at neutralizing Hezbollah's influence along the border, while also grappling with the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, where thousands have died since the conflict reignited.