Israel at War

Amid criticism from Trump and talks with Iran, IDF soldiers and commanders say their room for maneuver has been reduced: "The army is deep inside Lebanon, and we are exposed."

An explosive drone first hit near a Givati Brigade tank, then a second struck the evacuation vehicle – leaving one soldier in serious condition as the IDF responded with artillery.

According to a Saudi report, the Iran-US agreement includes timetables for an Israeli withdrawal and an end to the security deployment in southern Lebanon. Jerusalem has yet to respond to the matter.

"We are closely monitoring developments while maintaining a high level of alert and readiness across all fronts. The reality at this time is sensitive and complex," IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said against the backdrop of the strike in Dahiyeh and the threats from Iran. Trump: "This morning’s attack on Beirut should not have happened."

IDF strikes Hezbollah targets in Dahiyeh district in response to fire at Israel. Jerusalem seeks to preserve its freedom of action in Lebanon even if a memorandum of understandings is signed between Washington and Tehran.  Lebanese officials believe an agreement with Iran could advance a ceasefire, but Israel is signaling that fire at its territory will be met even in the heart of Beirut.

A senior diplomatic source told Israel Hayom that Israel would be able to defend itself against threats even if a agreement is signed to end the war. According to the source, US President Donald Trump promised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the nuclear issue, missiles and Hezbollah would be addressed, otherwise there would be no deal. If the talks fail and Iran continues military activity, toppling the regime will be put on the table in Washington.

Although it did not take part in the US strikes on targets in Iran, the IDF and CENTCOM are coordinating their moves, with updates continuing in real time around the clock. The Israeli Air Force is waiting for the signal and preparing for days of combat. Security officials: “It is too early to know how things will develop.”

The IDF declared a security lockdown in three northern communities after a suspect fired at soldiers.

The close diplomatic coordination between Jerusalem and Washington is what ultimately resolved the latest round with Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio played a significant role in the discussion and backed Israel’s position. Also: Netanyahu’s tactic in his conversation with Trump.

Israel may have “fired last” in the current round, but it did so in a limited manner, without US support and under Iranian dictates. Alongside the deep frustration, a question is also emerging: Will Israel continue striking in Dahiyeh, or will it “absorb” fire at its territory to prevent an Iranian attack?