Defense Minister Yoav Gallant conducted an operational assessment this morning (Tuesday) with senior commanders of Division 36, approximately 24 hours after the attack on weapons depots deep in Lebanon. Minister Gallant noted that “all these actions are routine in combat, but on the other hand, they are also preparations for any possible scenario.”
The assessment was attended by Division 36 Commander Brigadier General Dado Bar Kalifa, Golani Brigade Commander Colonel Adi Ganun, 188th Brigade Commander Colonel Or Voloshinsky, 282nd Brigade Commander Colonel Noam Sobel, 6th Brigade Commander Colonel Sarel Sebag, and staff officers of the division.
During the briefing, Minister Gallant emphasized the importance of maintaining high alertness and addressed all operational possibilities that could develop. “Our center of gravity is shifting gradually from south to north. We still have missions in the south, including hostages we need to bring home, and we are negotiating on that. I believe we will succeed in achieving results, which is very important.”
Regarding Hezbollah’s aggression, he said, “We are witnessing Hezbollah’s attacks every night, both in the division’s sector and in the deep strikes we carried out last night in the Baalbek area, and the Bekaa Valley in general, on weapons depots that exploded with high-quality ammunition.”
“Our enemies fight to the death; it has always been this way. But in a fierce battle, if they are thrown off balance, they don’t know what to do. If you approach from the expected direction, you will pay a price, and they will pay a price, but in the end, we will prevail. However, if you come from a different direction, with different thinking, and with the right cunning, the whole situation is thrown off balance. We have proof of this over the years. When I look at the results so far, in Lebanon, there are over 500 dead, almost like in the Second Lebanon War. We are operating much more precisely, more qualitatively, and more focused, which hurts them greatly. What remains now is to maintain vigilance, consider all scenarios, and understand that there are no shortcuts—this is where the best units of the IDF are stationed,” he added.
Minister Gallant stressed that the goal is to return the residents of the north to their homes. “We want to return the residents to the north safely. If there is a way to do this through a diplomatic agreement, we will do it through an agreement. If not, we will open the way by force. This is your mission. First, for the fire and intelligence systems, and then for the maneuvering forces. This could happen on a short timeline.”
