Israeli ministers have granted the military permission to strike Beirut directly in response to any rocket fire originating from Lebanon that crosses into Israeli territory, according to media reports. The decision was made during a security cabinet meeting on Monday morning, eliminating the need for special political approval for such retaliatory actions, as reported by Israeli Channel 14.
New Rules of Engagement
During the cabinet meeting, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated, "The fate of the Dahiyeh in Beirut is the fate of the towns of the north," as reported by Turkish Anadolu Agency. The new rules of engagement took effect overnight, and no projectiles have been fired into Israel since Monday morning. This escalation follows a series of exchanges between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah.
Background and Reactions
Iran previously launched a salvo of missiles at Israeli targets in retaliation for an attack on the outskirts of Beirut. This prompted an Israeli retaliation despite US pressure for restraint. US President Donald Trump later called for an "immediate ceasefire" and urged final peace negotiations. Tehran has repeatedly stated that any deal should include Lebanon, where Israel has been engaged in conflict with Hezbollah.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun made a rare direct appeal to the Israeli government and its people to come to the negotiating table to end the war. In a CNN interview aired Monday, he warned that a military solution "will never provide you with security and safety."
Controversial Statements
Aside from granting the military greater leeway to respond to Hezbollah attacks, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for "arresting their women and children," stating, "This is what hurts them most." Israeli Minister of Culture and Sports Miki Zohar was quoted as saying, "The next time Hezbollah fires at Israeli towns, we will immediately attack the Dahiyeh, and the Iranians will try again, so let them try."
