Shaul Goldstein, the head of the company responsible for planning electricity systems in Israel, warned that Israel is not prepared for the damage that could affect electricity infrastructure if a full-scale war with Hezbollah breaks out. Goldstein, who leads the Independent Electricity System Operator, stated, "We are not in a good position, and we are not prepared for a full-scale war with Hezbollah. We are living in a fantasy."
After his comments made headlines, Goldstein sought to retract some of his statements, telling the Israeli Broadcasting Authority "Kan": "I made irresponsible statements that I should not have made." However, his remarks drew condemnation from government officials and other leaders in the energy sector, as Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen threatened Hezbollah, saying, "If the electricity is cut off for hours in Israel, it will be cut off for months in Lebanon."
