The Israeli army announced that, based on instructions from the political leadership, it entered into a state of ceasefire with Iran, with an emphasis on raising the level of preparedness to the maximum degree in anticipation of any developments on the ground.
The Israeli army also announced that its forces are on high alert, and that the Air Force is fully prepared, as the planes are “armed and ready” to carry out any missions when necessary.
Regarding the Lebanese front, the Israeli army confirmed that it continues to intensify its military operations against Hezbollah on multiple fronts, as part of the ongoing operations in southern Lebanon.
He claimed that Hezbollah had suffered losses exceeding 1,700 people since the beginning of the confrontations, considering that these losses represented a “severe blow” to the party’s military capabilities.
He also pointed out that the Chief of Staff issued instructions to transform the area extending up to the Litani River into what he described as an “open operations area” against party members, in a move that indicates a clear escalation in the rules of engagement.
These statements come in light of an escalating and complex regional situation, as the ceasefire between the United States and Iran coincides with the continuation of military operations on the Lebanese front.
This reality shows the existence of separate paths, as Israel seeks to maintain field pressure in Lebanon despite the truce with Iran, with the aim of achieving military gains before reaching any possible agreement.
Raising the level of combat readiness also indicates expectations of sudden developments, due to the fragility of the regional truce and the possibility of its collapse at any moment.
On the other hand, Hezbollah continues its military operations, which keeps the southern front in a state of constant clashes, amid an increase in the frequency of mutual attacks.
Talk about expanding the scope of operations to the Litani River is considered an indication that the confrontation has turned into a more dangerous phase, which may include operations with a broader geographical scope.
These developments are accompanied by international pressure aimed at pushing the parties towards a ceasefire, but the continued escalation on the ground complicates the chances of reaching a comprehensive calm in the near future.
