As October 7 2024 inches ever closer, with Israel currently engaged in seven different theaters of war, "Israel Hayom" offers an overview on the current status of the conflict engulfing the middle east, with Israel at its center.
Military blockade on Lebanon
In Lebanon, the IDF is conducting focused raids, destroying Hezbollah weapons and underground infrastructure. The assessment is that 400 terrorists have been eliminated in the maneuver alone, including the elimination of a significant number of tactical-level commanders.
Currently, the IDF has complete control over which aircraft lands or doesn't land in Lebanon, as Hezbollah continues trying to smuggle weapons into Lebanon through civilian routes. These attempts led to the IDF strike at the Mazna border crossing between Lebanon and Syria. In the Bekaa Valley, Israeli forces are targeting weapon depots - primarily Iranian arms - intended for Hezbollah.
The IDF is determined to prevent Hezbollah from rearming - aiming is to facilitate the return of northern Israeli residents to their homes.
Preparations for a significant operation in Iran
On the response to the Iranian attack on Israel, sources suggest that the upcoming operation in Iran will be substantial, with expectations of significant cooperation from Israel's allied nations. "The West understands our resolve; what happened with Iran cannot be overlooked". The sources add.
Israel also assesses that Iran is experiencing difficulties due to Hezbollah's weakening. However, Hezbollah still poses a challenge to Israel, and it is expected that difficult moments lie ahead. Thus far, Israel's defense systems have proven effective, and no operational infrastructure has been damaged.
Efforts in the West Bank
There are extensive counterterrorism efforts in the West Bank, with significant operations to thwart terrorist attacks. The situation remains tense, with many terror plots being uncovered. The IDF is bolstering its forces in the region, having foiled several plots aimed at launching attacks on October 7. Israel continues to prepare for possible threats, believing that its enemies will continue to try to strike.
The war in Gaza
The IDF is expanding its corridor operations, and military officials believe that the efforts in Lebanon are weakening Yahya Sinwar (the leader of Hamas).
Eyes on Iraq
This week, a UAV launched from Iraq struck the Golan Heights, killing two IDF soldiers and wounding dozens more. Israel is monitoring Iraq closely, where US forces are also present, and further action is not being ruled out.
