Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant accused Iran on Monday of establishing an airport in southern Lebanon to facilitate attacks on Israel. During a speech at an international security conference hosted by Reichman University, Galant presented aerial images of what he claimed is an airport built by Iran aimed at achieving "terrorist objectives" against Israel. He did not provide further details but added that the site could accommodate medium-sized aircraft. The described location is near the village of Burka Jabour and the Lebanese city of Jezzine, approximately 20 kilometers north of the Israeli border town of Metula.
Hezbollah and Iranian officials have yet to respond to Galant's statements. Reuters reported a non-Israeli source familiar with the site indicating that it could accommodate large drones, some of which are armed and resemble those produced by Iran. The source added that the drones that might launch from this site could be used in both internal and external operational activities but noted that the nature and orientation of the runway suggest it would likely be used internally.
The source also pointed out that Hezbollah is investing heavily in drone technology. Galant stated that there is an Iranian effort to create another danger front on Israel's border with Jordan, which has a peace treaty with Israel, "through Shiite militias operating and stationed in Iraq."
Galant also referred to the divisions within Israeli society regarding proposed judicial reforms that have sparked massive protests, mentioning that some reserve soldiers have stated they will refuse mobilization if the legislation is passed. He warned that ongoing internal conflict jeopardizes the military's resilience and ability to ensure security.
