Israel’s top general on the northern front, Maj. Gen. Ori Gordin, is lobbying for a ground offensive into southern Lebanon to create a buffer zone and halt nearly a year of attacks on Galilee communities. The proposal comes amid disagreements among Israel’s political and defense leaders, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reportedly opposing a large-scale operation, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears supportive, at least publicly.
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Gordin’s push for an incursion aims to drive Hezbollah forces away from the border, with the general suggesting that a rapid operation could be successful, given that most elite Hezbollah fighters near the border have been killed or fled. However, Gallant and IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi have expressed concerns over the potential for a broader conflict with Hezbollah, seen as a more formidable enemy than Hamas.
Gallant has warned that a military campaign in Lebanon could complicate ongoing efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza. Meanwhile, Netanyahu is reportedly considering replacing Gallant if he resists a northern operation. Despite the risks of escalating into an all-out war with Hezbollah, which is believed to possess an arsenal of 150,000 rockets, some Israeli officials argue that a ground offensive could secure northern Israel and provide leverage for future diplomatic solutions. The debate over military strategy continues amid daily Hezbollah rocket attacks and rising public pressure for decisive action.