In light of the strain between Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Gallant, and despite Israel not claiming responsibility for the explosions in Lebanon, it was reported this evening that the Cabinet approved a decision allowing both officials to take actions against Hezbollah—actions that could lead to an all-out war in Lebanon.
During the last Cabinet meeting, where it was defined that the return of residents to the north is one of the objectives of the war, Cabinet members also noted an additional clause that enables Gallant and Netanyahu to "take defensive and offensive actions against Hezbollah in order to meet the war's objectives."
This may indicate that, contrary to reports, there are no significant differences in approach between the Defense Minister and the Prime Minister, as such authorization ostensibly binds Netanyahu. Given the decision, it remains to be seen what responsibilities will be placed on Gideon Sa'ar if he replaces Gallant.
The Cabinet decision may also hint at why Gallant emphasized cooperation at various levels in his statement today: "There is complete coordination in the system and unity regarding achieving the objectives—Prime Minister, Chief of Staff, Head of the Shin Bet, Head of Mossad, and Defense Minister."
**Chief of Staff in the Northern Command: Prepared Two Steps Ahead**
Statements released throughout the day highlighted the increasing tensions in the north. Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi visited the Northern Command, conducted a situational assessment, and approved offensive and defensive plans for the northern arena. During the meeting, Halevi stated, "We are prepared to do whatever is necessary to create the conditions for the residents to return home with a high level of security."
"We have many capabilities that we have not yet deployed; we have not yet deployed them. We have seen part of what is possible, and I believe we are in good readiness, preparing these plans going forward," Halevi added. "The rule is that whenever we operate at a certain stage, the next two stages are already ready to be launched strongly forward; at every stage, the price for Hezbollah must be high."