CNN —
Rising tensions between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah have led Israel to make the safe return of residents along its border with Lebanon a new war goal. This decision came after a late-night meeting by the country’s security cabinet, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The conflict has displaced over 62,000 Israelis and 94,000 Lebanese as hostilities escalated. Pressure from residents in northern Israel has prompted the government to take action against the threat of Hezbollah’s rockets from southern Lebanon.
Israeli officials warn that patience for a diplomatic solution with Hezbollah is running thin, potentially shifting military focus to the northern front. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized the need for military action to ensure residents’ safe return.
However, concerns over initiating a wider war in Lebanon have been raised, with Hezbollah linking an end to Israeli attacks in Gaza as a condition for stopping their own attacks.
As reports surface of Netanyahu considering replacing Gallant with Gideon Sa’ar as defense minister, tensions in Israel’s political and military circles are rising. Opposition leader Benny Gantz has criticized the potential move, warning of irresponsibility in the face of escalating regional tensions.