Netanyahu visits IDF troops in southern Lebanon: Hezbollah left with only 8% of pre-war arsenal

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conducted a high-profile visit to IDF positions in southern Lebanon, delivering a direct message to both the Iranian regime and its primary proxy. According to material reviewed by The Zioneer Intelligence Desk, Netanyahu emphasized that the military presence in the sector will continue as long as a threat to northern Israel persists. "We say to both Iran and Hezbollah: Get out of here," Netanyahu stated, asserting that the group has "no business" remaining in the border region.

Arsenal Degradation and Casualties

During the visit, Netanyahu provided specific figures regarding the degradation of Hezbollah's military infrastructure. He noted that the group, which once boasted an arsenal of roughly 150,000 rockets and missiles aimed at the Israeli heartland, has seen that stockpile reduced to approximately 8%. This assessment follows weeks of intensive IDF operations targeting storage sites and launch infrastructure. Additionally, the Prime Minister highlighted the heavy toll on Hezbollah's manpower, stating that Israeli forces have eliminated 9,000 terrorists, including hundreds in recent weeks alone.

Operational Directives

Addressing the troops directly, Netanyahu issued a clear instruction regarding the rules of engagement in the security zone: "If you identify a threat — act. Don’t wait." This proactive stance is intended to ensure that any attempt by the group to reconstitute its presence near the border is met with immediate force. The Prime Minister framed the current situation as an opportunity for "two sovereign states" to eventually restore a reality of security and prosperity, provided that the Iranian-backed threat is removed from the equation.

Strategic Outlook

The visit signals Jerusalem's intent to maintain its grip on the southern Lebanon security zone despite international diplomatic pressure. By highlighting the 92% reduction in Hezbollah's rocket capacity, Netanyahu is making the case that the "ring of fire" once surrounding Israel is being systematically dismantled. However, he cautioned that while the group has been crushed, the remaining threat is still significant, necessitating the IDF's continued presence on the ground to prevent a return to the pre-war status quo.