Defense Minister Yoav Gallant recently met with US envoy Amos Hochstein to discuss the security situation in Israel’s north. Gallant emphasized the urgent need for a military operation to ensure the safety of Israeli residents in the region. He stated that diplomatic negotiations with Hezbollah had reached a stalemate, and the group’s threats to continue attacks until a ceasefire was reached with Hamas made the situation even more critical.
Gallant also presented IDF operational options against Hezbollah to the US delegation and stressed the importance of American support for Israel’s right to self-defense. This support would play a crucial role in achieving a more favorable security balance against Hezbollah.
Llyod Austin
Earlier in the day, Gallant had conveyed a similar message to US Secretary of Defense Llyod Austin, warning that time was running out for a diplomatic solution. The defense minister’s strong stance came amidst speculation of his potential replacement for not being aggressive enough in addressing the threat posed by Hezbollah.