Dr Mike Evans

Netanyahu meets with northern forces as conflict with Hezbollah escalates By Dr Mike Evans

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened with northern council heads at the Regba control center in the Mateh Asher Regional Council, addressing the crucial need for ongoing implementation of the structural reinforcement plan in the north, which includes budget considerations.

During the meeting, the council heads urged Netanyahu to persist in the conflict until the mission’s completion, emphasizing the safe return of hostages and ensuring the security, both personal and economic, of communities along the confrontation line.

“We are committed to restoring security to the citizens of Israel in both the south and the north. This is what we will do. I thank you, dear friends, for your fantastic resilience,” Netanyahu stated.

In a symbolic gesture of hope for the hostages’ swift return, Prime Minister Netanyahu and the council heads were photographed against the backdrop of images depicting those held captive. Reflecting on the meeting, Netanyahu expressed his appreciation for the resilience displayed by the northern council heads and their residents during challenging times, highlighting its integral role in achieving the war’s objectives.

The Prime Minister outlined a comprehensive plan, placing a primary focus on securing an absolute victory over Hamas in the south and the safe return of hostages. Additionally, efforts are directed at preventing the resurgence of entities like Hamas and addressing the challenges on the northern front.

Netanyahu noted ongoing military actions against Hezbollah and emphasized the preparedness of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for any scenario, cautioning Hezbollah against attempting actions against the State of Israel.

Concluding his remarks, Netanyahu affirmed the commitment to restoring security for citizens in both the southern and northern regions.

The meeting included key figures such as Negev, Galilee, and National Resilience Minister Yitzhak Wasserlauf, the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff Tzachi Braverman, PMO Director General Yossi Shelley, National Economic Council Director Prof. Avi Simhon, Maj.-Gen. Avi Gil, the PMO Deputy Director General for Home Affairs, Planning, and Development Hadas Levi, and representatives from the IDF Home Front Command.