Israeli Finance Minister Calls for Re-occupation of Lebanon Amid Tensions with Hezbollah
Israel’s far-right finance minister is pushing for the re-occupation of southern Lebanon as tensions rise with the Hezbollah resistance movement. Bezalel Smotrich made controversial remarks during a speech in al-Quds, stating that only a war with Hezbollah can bring security to Israel’s northern residents. He also called for the creation of a “security strip” within Lebanese territory.
Smotrich’s statements come after a deadly rocket attack in Majdal Shams, which Israel blamed on Hezbollah. However, the resistance group denied involvement, pointing to the possibility of Israeli fire. The escalating conflict has resulted in Hezbollah and Israel exchanging deadly fire, displacing thousands of Israeli settlers.
The situation remains volatile as Hezbollah vows to continue retaliatory attacks while Israel’s relentless Gaza onslaught continues.