Israel’s Manufacturers on High Alert for Escalation With Hizbullah
The Manufacturers Association of Israel (MAI) has issued a stern advisory to over 2,000 industrial factories throughout Israel, urging them to brace for a potential full-scale conflict with the armed Lebanese organization Hizbullah. This cautionary notice, detailed in a letter titled “Industry’s Preparation for Full-Scale War on Israel’s Northern Border,” encompasses 90% of the nation’s industrial output, which employs around 400,000 workers.
MAI CEO Ruby Ginel highlighted in the correspondence the stark warnings from government officials and the defense minister about the escalation of military activities if a diplomatic resolution to the tensions on the northern frontier fails. The letter outlines grim government predictions of nationwide power outages lasting up to three days, with subsequent scheduled blackouts to manage the electricity network’s demand.
Furthermore, industrial operations face the cessation of natural gas supplies and other significant disruptions, necessitating thorough preparedness measures. Factories are encouraged to ensure their backup systems for electricity and natural gas are operational, to hoard fuel for at least 72 hours, and to bolster raw material inventories to mitigate the impact of potential logistical challenges.
To counteract expected severe disruptions in cellular communications, the deployment of satellite phones is recommended. Additionally, MAI has established a specialized emergency room to liaise with government emergency services, ensuring the seamless integration of the Israeli industry’s response to any crisis.
