Gallant Heads to Washington Heightened Tensions as Defense Minister Seeks US Support for Free Flow of Weapons as Embassies Call for Pullout of People from Beirut and France Promises Backing for Lebanese Army to Push Hezbollah North
In a stark warning that has escalated tensions in the region, Hezbollah released a threat video on Thursday, with Hebrew and English subtitles, indicating the possibility of an all-out war with Israel and showing multiple likely strategic targets in its crosshairs, listing the coordinates and aerial images. The video surfaced just as Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant departed for Washington to discuss security matters with US officials.
Hezbollah’s Video Warning
The video, circulated on Hezbollah’s media channels, showcased various military exercises and weaponry, including long-range missiles and drones. Hezbollah’s Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah declared, “Any aggression by Israel will be met with unprecedented retaliation. Our capabilities are ready to respond to any threat.”
The video featured a map highlighting strategic targets in Israel, with a narrator asserting that these locations could be hit in case of a conflict. This development marks a significant intensification of rhetoric from the Lebanese militant group, which has consistently opposed Israeli policies and military actions.
⚡️BREAKING
— Iran Observer (@IranObserver0) June 22, 2024
Hezbollah has just released a video entitled "whoever thinks of war against us will regret"
The video shows all the strategic sites in Israel that Hezbollah intends to target pic.twitter.com/GjB1BspaUt
Gallant’s Visit to Washington
Amid this backdrop of rising tensions, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is scheduled to meet with key US defense and intelligence officials. The agenda includes discussions on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Hezbollah’s growing threat, and the broader security landscape in the Middle East.
Gallant’s visit is seen as a crucial move to secure US support and cooperation. Speaking before his departure, Gallant emphasized, “Our commitment to Israel’s security is unwavering. We will work closely with our American allies to address the challenges posed by hostile entities like Hezbollah.”
International Reactions
The international community has reacted with concern over the possibility of a new conflict. The United Nations urged both parties to exercise restraint. UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated, “We call for de-escalation and dialogue to prevent any further deterioration of the situation.” European embassies in Beirut are reported to be emptying their personnel.
The US State Department reiterated its support for Israel while calling for calm. “We stand firmly with our ally Israel in the face of threats from Hezbollah. However, we urge all parties to avoid actions that could lead to a broader conflict,” said a department spokesperson. The US has redeploying the massive aircraft carrier Eisenhower from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean opposite Haifa.
Tensions Over Munitions Delivery
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly criticized the slow delivery of munitions from the United States. In an interview with Punchbowl News, Netanyahu expressed his frustration, saying, “The delays in the delivery of critical munitions are unacceptable. In times of heightened threat, Israel must be equipped to defend itself without hesitation.” He previously released a video saying delays in deliveries were “inconceivable” in wartime.
Netanyahu’s comments are seen as a direct appeal to the US to expedite military support amid increasing threats from Hezbollah and other hostile actors in the region. The PM said that after months of “quiet discussions” had yielded no results, he decided to go public with his critique.
Impact on the Ground
In northern Israel, communities near the Lebanese border are on high alert. Local authorities have reviewed emergency protocols, and residents have been advised to remain vigilant. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have increased their presence in the area, conducting regular patrols and drills to prepare for any potential escalation.
An IDF spokesperson commented, “We are prepared to defend our citizens against any aggression. Our forces are on standby and ready to respond to any provocation.”
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