Netanyahu Warns of ‘Challenging Days’ as Israel Prepares for Retaliation After Key Assassinations
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning on Wednesday evening, cautioning that “challenging days are ahead” for Israel as it faces heightened threats from Iran and its regional proxies. These threats follow the assassinations of Hezbollah’s top military commander in Beirut and Hamas’s political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran.
Speaking after a three-hour-long security cabinet meeting at military headquarters in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s readiness to confront any scenario, stating, “We are ready for every scenario and will stand united and determined against every threat.” He also vowed that Israel would “exact a very heavy price for any aggression against us.”
The security situation in Israel has become increasingly tense, with the country on high alert for potential retaliatory attacks. The recent killings have exacerbated fears that the ongoing conflict in Gaza could escalate into a broader Middle Eastern war.
In light of these developments, the United States has raised its travel advisory for Lebanon to the highest level, advising its citizens not to travel there due to the escalating tensions. The U.S. State Department also urged Americans currently in Lebanon to depart if possible.
Netanyahu avoided commenting directly on the killing of Haniyeh, but Iranian and Hamas officials have attributed the attack to Israel. Meanwhile, Hezbollah confirmed the death of Fuad Shukr, a top military commander, more than 24 hours after the Israeli strike in Beirut. Shukr, who was considered a key figure in Hezbollah’s military operations, will be buried on Thursday, with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah expected to deliver an address.
