Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has announced a nationwide state of emergency in Israel, set to last for 48 hours beginning at 6:00 am on Sunday, August 25, 2024. This declaration follows a series of pre-emptive military strikes by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) on Lebanon. Gallant’s statement highlights that this emergency measure grants the IDF the authority to issue specific instructions to Israeli citizens, including restrictions on gatherings and the closure of certain sites.
The recent Israeli military actions have led to significant casualties in southern Lebanon, with reports indicating at least 10 deaths and 5 injuries. Gallant expressed concerns about the potential for attacks on Israeli civilians in areas not previously covered by local emergency measures. Consequently, he has extended the special situation to other parts of the country.
In addition to this, Gallant has briefed US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin about the situation. According to the defence ministry, Gallant emphasized that the strikes were aimed at neutralizing an imminent threat to Israeli citizens. The two leaders also discussed the importance of preventing further regional escalation.
In response, Hezbollah, a militant group based in Lebanon, has launched a large-scale attack involving rockets and drones. The group claims this assault is a direct retaliation for the recent killing of one of its top commanders by Israeli forces. Hezbollah’s actions included targeting several Israeli bases and Iron Dome defense systems.
The Israeli military has warned residents in southern Lebanon to evacuate areas close to Hezbollah operations to ensure their safety. The IDF has intensified its airstrikes on Lebanese targets deemed a threat to Israeli security. Military spokesperson Daniel Hagari noted the risk of a broader conflict and urged Lebanese civilians to move away from areas prone to Hezbollah’s attacks.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to convene a security cabinet meeting to address the ongoing crisis. The emergency declaration provides the IDF Home Front Command with enhanced powers to implement protective measures and issue life-saving instructions to the public.
This escalation follows heightened regional tensions, including the recent assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which has further inflamed the situation. As Israel braces for potential retaliation, the public remains on high alert amidst ongoing military operations and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict.
Packachange Pretty! This has been a really wonderful post. Many thanks for providing these details.