Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a series of escalatory statements regarding the situation in Lebanon, stressing that a ceasefire is not on the table as long as Israeli forces and towns in the Galilee continue to be targeted, in his words.
Katz indicated that the Israeli army is ready to act, speaking of preparedness to contribute to what he described as a mission to disarm Hezbollah, in a stance that reflects a hardening in the Israeli approach to developments on the ground.
He warned that the continuation of the current situation could lead to dangerous escalation, considering that the Lebanese government's continued existence under Hezbollah could open the door to severe repercussions for the country.
He also directed direct criticism at Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem, accusing him of "playing with fire" and indicating that this approach could have serious consequences for Lebanon, according to his statement.
