Zamir: IDF Expects Lebanese Army to Clear Hezbollah, Readies Rapid Offensive if Ceasefire Violated

Strategic Control at Beaufort

During his tour of the Beaufort Ridge, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir emphasized that Israel has no intention of relinquishing this dominant terrain to Hezbollah. The area, which overlooks northern Israeli communities, has been a focal point of Hezbollah's military infrastructure for decades. Zamir described the site as "saturated with terrorist infrastructure," noting that the Iranian-funded organization spent years constructing the underground networks now under IDF operational control.

Expectations for the Lebanese Army

The Chief of Staff's visit serves as a direct message to the Lebanese government and its military. Under the current ceasefire framework, the Lebanese Armed Forces are expected to be the sole armed entity in southern Lebanon. Zamir explicitly called on the LAF to act against Hezbollah remnants in areas beyond the IDF's immediate security zone. This demand highlights a critical test for Beirut: whether it possesses the political will and military capability to disarm the Shia militia in accordance with international agreements.

Readiness for Escalation

While the ceasefire remains in effect, Zamir made it clear that the IDF's presence in southern Lebanon is a proactive defensive measure. He stated that Israeli forces remain deployed and ready to resume major combat operations at a moment's notice. The "rapid offensive" mentioned by the Chief of Staff suggests that Israel has already prepared contingency plans to strike Hezbollah targets if the group attempts to re-establish its positions or launch attacks against the Galilee. For now, the IDF maintains control of both the surface terrain and the vast subterranean complexes it has uncovered.