Hezbollah’s Deterrent Message to Israel as it Prepares for Limited War on Lebanon

By Elijah J. Magnier:
The Israeli government, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has directed the army to prepare for potential military operations in Lebanon. Israeli officials have suggested these operations could involve “several days of combat” following the recent war in Gaza, which has evolved into more minor, rapid, and repeated skirmishes.

According to informed sources, Israel is seriously contemplating multiple airstrikes on a wide range of targets across Lebanon, numbering in the thousands. Although a ground invasion seems unlikely, this possibility involves the likelihood of civilian casualties in the dozens or even hundreds whenever Israel identifies a high-value target for assassination anywhere within Lebanon, including cities deep inside the country.

Netanyahu appears determined to remain in office until his term ends in October 2026. As a result, a full-scale destructive war between Lebanon and Israel seems merely postponed. Israel is preparing to respond to Hezbollah and Iran’s potential retaliation. Moreover, the return of over 100,000 displaced Israelis—following Hezbollah’s earlier destruction of settlements along the front edge—will likely not occur without a military engagement. Israel aims to create a new negotiating reality through this conflict, potentially shifting the balance of power in the region.

In a war media broadcast titled “Our Mountains Are Our Treasures, ” Hezbollah recently revealed some of its military capabilities.” It featured a facility for launching medium-range missiles, such as the Syrian-made B-302, M-302, and R10 (known as Khaybar-1). These missiles, modified to increase their accuracy, are equipped with advanced targeting systems and can reach 100 to 150 kilometres. The footage showcased launchers holding six missiles, others with individual missiles, and an underground base carved into the mountains of southern Lebanon.