Israel is stepping up its game in a major way, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s recent comments make that abundantly clear. While stopping just shy of confirming Israel’s involvement in the back-to-back attacks on Hezbollah assets, Gallant gave a wink and a nod to Mossad and the defense establishment for their “great accomplishments.”
He didn’t have to say much—actions speak louder than words. The sophisticated pager and radio attacks that ripped through Hezbollah networks in Lebanon over the past two days are evidence of Israel’s growing strategy to dismantle Hamas and its allies, particularly Hezbollah.
Gallant made it clear that Israel’s focus is shifting northward. After the October 7 Hamas massacre, Israel’s sights are now set on Hezbollah, which has long been a thorn in its side. The message from Gallant is simple: Israel is mobilizing its forces, resources, and intelligence to secure its northern communities and ensure that those citizens can return home safely. The increased military presence along the Lebanon border only underscores how seriously Israel is taking this threat.
“The center of gravity is shifting northward, meaning that we are increasingly diverting forces, resources, and energy toward the North.This operation is being carried out by all the bodies, and the mission is clear and simple – to return the residents of the northern communities to their homes safely,” Gallant stated.
🇱🇧🇮🇱 Israel Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant:
We are on the verge of a new phase in the war.
We are moving forces and resources towards the northern front.
Our mission is clear and simple: to return our citizens to their towns in the north. pic.twitter.com/gOuuTI9BW8— Curious Route (@CuriousRoute) September 18, 2024
The attacks in Lebanon have been nothing short of devastating. In a matter of days, Israel has effectively compromised critical communication devices used by hundreds of Hezbollah operatives, dealing a severe blow to the militant group. These pagers and two-way radios weren’t just any devices—they were strategically implanted with explosives that detonated remotely, causing chaos and taking out high-value targets. The precision and timing of the strikes have deepened fears of an all-out war, but let’s be honest here: Israel isn’t backing down, and this operation was likely in the works for months if not years.
The scale of the operation also highlights just how deeply Israel has penetrated Hezbollah’s ranks. Experts estimate that this attack required building long-term relationships, collecting intelligence, and developing the technology necessary to embed explosives into the devices without detection. The fact that Hezbollah operatives were carrying compromised devices suggests that Israeli intelligence has been ahead of the game, biding its time and waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
Tons of Hezbollah walkie talkies are reportedly blowing up in Lebanon today, including at a funeral for some of the militants who didn’t survive yesterday’s carnage. pic.twitter.com/8S0HCHK3GD
— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) September 18, 2024
Hezbollah is now scrambling to figure out what hit them. They suspect the use of RDX or PETN explosives—materials that pack a punch even in small amounts. They’re also concerned about whether these devices had GPS systems that allowed Israel to track their movements, which would only further demonstrate Israel’s ability to outmaneuver one of its most dangerous enemies.
It has been a bad couple of days to be a Hezbollah operative.
If you don’t want your pager blown up, maybe don’t join Hezbollah. pic.twitter.com/FW12hTmhBc
— Tom Cotton (@SenTomCotton) September 18, 2024
As Israeli military forces move closer to the Lebanese border, tanks, and artillery in tow, the message is clear: Israel is ready for whatever comes next. The chaos in Lebanon serves as a reminder that Israel’s enemies are on the back foot, and Gallant’s comments signal that Israel’s defense strategy is only getting more aggressive. Whether this escalates into a full-blown conflict remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure—Israel is in control of the narrative, and it’s not pulling any punches.
