Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, reiterating Israel’s determination to continue military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza. Netanyahu emphasized that the goal is to degrade Hezbollah’s capabilities and declared Israel’s right to defend itself, warning Iran of retaliatory action if Tehran initiates a direct attack. “If you strike us, we will strike you; there is no place in Iran where the long arm of Israel cannot reach,” Netanyahu stated.
The Israeli offensive, involving extensive aerial bombardments, has resulted in approximately 700 casualties in Lebanon within the past week, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, particularly from the US, Netanyahu affirmed that operations would persist until Israel’s objectives are achieved, namely dismantling Hezbollah’s military leadership and neutralizing threats along the border.
The escalation has forced around 118,000 people to flee northern Lebanon. Notably, Israeli airstrikes recently intensified, with reports of substantial casualties, including a family of nine in southern Lebanon.
Netanyahu also hinted at a potential ground offensive, pointing out the readiness of Israeli troops along the Israel-Lebanon border, while maintaining that any such operation would be brief and focused on specific military targets.
These military actions follow Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel, which began in solidarity with Hamas after its October 7 assault. The ongoing conflict has seen support for Hezbollah from other Iranian-backed groups, including the Houthi militia in Yemen.
Following Netanyahu’s UN address, Israel launched new strikes targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, signaling an ongoing and possibly intensifying conflict.
Original Story https://www.news18.com/world/if-you-hurt-us-netanyahu-warns-iran-as-israel-sends-tanks-to-lebanon-border-for-possible-ground-assault-9066405.html
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