Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant stated that "Israel will not cease fire even if Hezbollah does," warning that the war will be "difficult for Israel, but destructive for Hezbollah and Lebanon." During his meeting with his French counterpart Sébastien Lecornu, Galant said, "Even if Hezbollah unilaterally stops firing, Israel will not stop until it ensures the safe return of the northern residents to their homes."
Reports indicate that Galant thanked Lecornu for France's commitment to changing the security situation in southern Lebanon and removing Hezbollah from the borders. He emphasized that "France has an important role in the international desire for stability in the security situation on the northern border, as part of the political effort led by the U.S. administration," adding that "Israel prefers to end the conflict with Hezbollah through a political settlement."
He noted, "However, we are preparing to create a safe situation for the return of the residents, also through military means," warning that "the war in the north will be difficult for Israel, but it will be devastating for Hezbollah and Lebanon."
