In a series of strong statements, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued a warning to the people of Lebanon amid rising tensions in the Middle East. As both Israel and Hezbollah contemplate first-strike options, Gallant emphasized Israel's commitment to "peace, prosperity, and stability on both sides of the northern border." In contrast, he accused Hezbollah of holding Lebanon and its people hostage for sectarian interests.

"We will not allow the Hezbollah militia to destabilize the border and the region," Gallant declared, firmly stating Israel's stance. He further stated that if Hezbollah continues its aggression, Israel will fight back with full force. The Defense Minister recalled the regret expressed by Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah after the failed adventure in August 2006, urging Lebanon to learn from the past and avoid dangerous scenarios in the future.

Gallant concluded his warning with the Arabic proverb "He who plays with fire may expect destruction," underlining the potential consequences of Hezbollah's actions.

The recent loss of top terrorists by both Hamas and Hezbollah, with each group accusing Israel for targeted assassinations, has further heightened tensions in the region. Hezbollah, in particular, seeks retaliation for the death of its "No. 2" leader, Fuad Shukr, and could be further motivated by the recent killing of another commander, Hassan Fares Jeshi.

Israeli media reports indicate that Hezbollah plans to attack Israel, even if Iran decides not to retaliate for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Iran has held Israel responsible for Haniyeh's killing. Hezbollah's advantage in launching such an attack lies in the element of surprise, as evidenced by the IDF reporting 25 projectiles launched with no injuries resulting.

Gallant assured the public that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) maintains high readiness in all parameters to respond to any provocation. He labeled the enemy's attempts to sow fear and terrorize as psychological warfare and stressed the importance of resilience and strength in the face of such threats. Gallant called for the public's adherence to instructions from the Home Front Command to ensure their safety.

Jonathan Ruhe, Director of Foreign Policy at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America, spoke about the possibility of Israeli preemption, stating that the likelihood increases if Hezbollah's attack is expected to be severe. Ruhe suggested that Israel may resort to airstrikes on Hezbollah launchers and command-and-control assets in Lebanon to neutralize their capabilities.

Meanwhile, U.S. officials, speaking to Politico, indicate that Iran may be reconsidering its plans for retaliation following the death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Factors such as regional pressure from neighboring countries and the potential for direct conflict with the U.S. are believed to influence Iran's decision-making. The U.S. has deployed F-22 Raptors to the region as part of its force posture changes in response to threats posed by Iran and its proxies.

While Iran initially claimed that Haniyeh died in a missile strike, it is now believed that he was killed by a bomb placed in his room, suggesting a covert operation. U.S. officials expect Iran to respond to Haniyeh's death, albeit in a more measured manner as time passes.

As tensions remain high in the Middle East, Israel maintains its vigilance, urging Lebanon to avoid actions that could lead to a dangerous escalation. The region watches with apprehension as the stand-off between Israel, Hezbollah, and Iran unfolds.