The Minister of Defense, Yoav Gallant, met with the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, last night at the UN headquarters in New York. The two discussed the destabilizing threats in the Middle East, primarily Iran's actions against Israel through funding and arming Hezbollah, Hamas, and other terrorist organizations.
Gallant emphasized to the Secretary-General that the potential for escalation along the northern border is increasing, as a result of Hezbollah's actions that challenge Israel's sovereignty. The minister briefed Guterres on Iran's growing involvement along the borders of Lebanon, Syria, and the Judea and Samaria regions. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of a public condemnation by the UN against such actions.
The Minister of Defense emphasized the urgent need for immediate United Nations intervention to de-escalate tensions through bolstering the freedom of movement for UNIFIL forces in the area and implementing their mandate along the northern border. He presented Hezbollah's positions deployed along the border line. Additionally, he clarified that the State of Israel will take action against any violation of sovereignty and threats to the lives of its citizens.
Gallant conveyed his appreciation to Guterres for his personal efforts towards resolving the issue of the Israeli prisoners and missing individuals held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and requested his assistance in finding a solution to the matter.
