IDF Warns Hezbollah Could Escalate Conflict if War with Iran Resumes

The Israeli military continues its operations in southern Lebanon, where daily artillery fire and airstrikes target areas believed to be used by Hezbollah for movement and strategic positioning. The Northern Command, led by Major General Rafi Milo, has intensified efforts to disrupt Hezbollah’s ability to establish assembly areas, hiding sites, and outposts in regions such as Wadi al-Hajjar, Seloqi, and Wadi Zabkin. These actions aim to prevent the militant group from launching attacks or conducting operations in the northern region.

According to security officials, Hezbollah’s reconstruction efforts are evident in Lebanon and Beirut, but the group faces challenges due to the absence of senior commanders with operational experience against Israel. Despite this, the Hezbollah command structure remains intact, continuing to guide senior field commanders. The IDF’s focus is on preventing the group from regrouping and reestablishing its military capabilities in the area.

Northern Command and intelligence units are conducting operations in villages and towns deep within southern Lebanon, including Al Khayyam, Maidon, Shabaa, and Zoter A – Shrekiah. These efforts involve both air and ground strikes aimed at disrupting Hezbollah’s command and control infrastructure, damaging logistical routes, and eliminating hidden military activity. The IDF also employs engineering operations, using bulldozers and explosives to destroy terrorist infrastructure such as tunnel shafts, weapons depots, and military positions.

The IDF’s strategic assumption, as stated by officials in closed forums, is that Hezbollah could escalate the security situation in southern Lebanon if hostilities with Iran resume. Given the uncertainty of when this might occur, the military is working to neutralize threats daily by destroying enemy infrastructure and reinforcing security along the “yellow line.” This includes improving defense components in the international border area and within Lebanese territory, alongside the IDF’s outpost line.

The IDF’s operations are part of a broader effort to strengthen security and prevent Hezbollah from regrouping under civilian cover. The military is also addressing the perceived lack of commitment from the Lebanese army and border authorities, which has contributed to the ongoing instability in the region. These actions reflect the IDF’s continued focus on maintaining control and preventing potential escalations that could threaten regional stability.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Hebrew)