Israel Broadens War Goals, Focuses on Northern Front Amid Ongoing Tensions with Hezbollah

Israel has now set a new war objective: the safe return of residents from communities near its northern border with Lebanon, amid escalating tensions with Hezbollah. This move was officially endorsed by Israel's security cabinet during a late-night session that extended into early Tuesday morning, according to an announcement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. The objective has now been formally recognized as a war goal, reflecting its political importance.

Previously, addressing the displacement of northern residents was seen as a necessity, but this is the first time it has been officially declared a war aim. Data from the Israeli government reveals that over 62,000 people from northern Israel have been displaced since hostilities with Hezbollah erupted on October 8, following a Hamas-led attack on Israel. Meanwhile, Lebanon has seen over 94,000 displacements due to the conflict, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health.

Pressure is mounting on the Israeli government from both officials and residents in the north, who are demanding action against the ongoing threat of Hezbollah's rockets. This heightened pressure may lead Israel to refocus its military efforts on the northern front, especially as diplomatic solutions with Hezbollah appear increasingly elusive.

Prime Minister Netanyahu informed US envoy Amos Hochstein that the return of northern residents is contingent upon a significant improvement in the security situation in the region. He emphasized that Israel will take necessary measures to ensure security and facilitate the return of residents. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant underscored that military action is essential to achieve this objective.

However, Hochstein has cautioned against broadening the conflict into Lebanon, as reported by Axios. Hezbollah has stated that its attacks on Israel will cease only when Israel ends its actions in Gaza.

The strategic shift comes amid speculation that Netanyahu plans to replace Gallant with Gideon Sa’ar, a former political rival and longtime politician, rather than the career military officer Gallant. This potential appointment has sparked controversy, with protests erupting outside Sa’ar's residence in Tel Aviv, and concerns raised about its impact on the Gaza hostage situation.

Opposition leader Benny Gantz criticized the potential replacement of Gallant, describing it as irresponsible given the possible escalation in the northern front. He also noted that while the new war aim is a step forward, it is overdue.