Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced today, Sunday, that "the Lebanon front poses the greatest challenge to us and requires urgent action," indicating that "we are approaching the hour of decision on the northern front." He stated: "We have not yet achieved our objectives in the war, but we have not given up on achieving them."
Gallant revealed during his visit near the Syrian border that there is an "increased readiness of the forces for offensive missions to prevent the ongoing Iranian entrenchment in the region." He added: "I patrolled the Golan Heights area this morning with the division commander. I saw the very good preparedness of the Israeli army forces here in the eastern sector and how we prevent the positioning of Hezbollah forces as well as Iranian forces trying to reach the Golan Heights border. We maintain full freedom of action to strike any target and any enemy that threatens us."
He continued: "At the same time, there are very large preparatory efforts underway here for training and preparation against any threat that may arise from the north. We are determined to return our residents to the north, and for this purpose, we are gathering and studying intelligence information, deploying forces, and training to carry out this mission with precision, speed, and high quality."
Gallant arrived today at Division 210 and conducted a situational assessment near the Israeli-Syrian border with the division commander, Brigadier General Tzion Ritzen, and division staff officers. The Israeli minister received an intelligence report regarding Iran and Hezbollah's attempts to solidify their presence throughout Syria and insisted on the Israeli army's movements to thwart armed elements in the field.
