Israel Reportedly Prepares for Offensive in Lebanon, Hezbollah Braces for Response
BEIRUT – Intelligence reports circulating in beirut indicate Israel is preparing for a potential large-scale offensive targeting Lebanon, with the Bekaa Valley identified as a likely initial strike zone. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, including recent messages delivered following Israeli actions in Qatar, Lebanese officials report receiving warnings that Lebanon will not be spared from a “comprehensive aggression.”
sources familiar with the situation state that while Israel and the United States have reportedly agreed to a postponement of the offensive,this is viewed as temporary. A key condition for averting further escalation, according to diplomatic communications, is full Lebanese commitment to implementing a “Barak paper” – a reference to a past proposal – and the disarmament of hezbollah. Recent discussions have included pressures for direct U.S. involvement in plans to limit Hezbollah’s weaponry in southern Lebanon, and even demands for direct, uncoordinated raids on Hezbollah sites.
The assessment within Beirut is that Israel’s current, limited strikes against hezbollah targets are not a substitute for a broader campaign. Diplomats reportedly conveyed a stark message: “No guarantees with the Israeli enemy.” The situation is described as highly volatile, with yesterday’s aggression in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa seen as potential precursors to a wider conflict.
