Situation with Hezbollah ‘on brink of conflict,' warns Israeli security source

JERUSALEM

An unnamed Israeli security source warned on Tuesday that the situation with Hezbollah is on the brink of escalation, suggesting that members of the Israeli public might soon find themselves in shelters.

“The escalating tensions with Hezbollah as a situation is on the brink of conflict,” Israel Hayom daily cited a high-ranking Israeli security source as saying, suggesting that all Israelis might soon find themselves in shelters.

These remarks came on Tuesday after at least nine people, including a child, were killed and some 2,750 others injured in explosions of pager devices in various areas across Lebanon, according to Health Minister Firas Al-Abiad.

Lebanese media suggested that the devices exploded after an Israeli breach of the communication system.

Lebanese group Hezbollah confirmed that at least two of its members were killed and many injured in the explosions and held Israel fully responsible, vowing “just retaliation from unexpected quarters” to Israel.

“Urgent security consultations are underway, with the very real possibility of war against Hezbollah on the table,” the official added.

The official said the “main goal of the Gaza war has been largely accomplished. Resources are now available for a northern campaign.”

“The approaching winter and onset of the rainy season are additional factors under consideration, as these conditions could potentially favor Hezbollah while complicating IDF (Israeli army) operations,” the source added.

He also said: “Netanyahu recognized that failing to confront Hezbollah now could result in an Israeli setback. Consequently, he's set in motion preparations for this campaign, including overcoming resistance from Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.”

The source argued that “the rumored intention to replace Gallant, who has thus far opposed action against Hezbollah, was a clear message to Gallant to fall in line or face dismissal.”

“I can confirm that Gallant was shaken by recent developments, and has subsequently aligned himself with the new direction, now preparing for potential action,” the source said.

Tensions have mounted along the Lebanon-Israel border amid cross-border attacks between Hezbollah and Israeli forces as Tel Aviv presses ahead with an offensive on Gaza. The offensive has killed over 41,000 people since last October following a Hamas attack.

*Writing by Mohammad Sio