Gallant in Conversation with Austin: The Aim of Israeli Attacks is to Weaken Hezbollah's Military Infrastructure and Prevent Missile Attacks

Yoav Gallant, the Israeli Defense Minister, informed U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin during a phone conversation about the progress of Israel's 'targeted and precise' attacks in Lebanon. He explained that these attacks have led to the identification and destruction of Hezbollah's attack infrastructure in border areas, including the destruction of 'Radwan' forces' tunnels and command and control centers. Gallant emphasized that these bases in southern Lebanon are designed as launch points for attacks similar to the October 7 assault on northern Israel, which Israel will not tolerate. The Israeli Defense Minister also referred to precise attacks on Hezbollah's weapon depots and intelligence centers in Beirut, adding that these attacks aim to reduce Hezbollah's attack capabilities and prevent missile strikes on residential areas in Israel. He stressed Israel's commitment to minimizing harm to Lebanese civilians and UNIFIL forces, and discussed defense cooperation between Israel and the U.S. in facing threats from the Islamic Republic and its proxy forces in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq. In this conversation, both sides also exchanged views on the successful operation to eliminate Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader in Gaza, and the continuation of Israeli military operations in the area. Gallant reiterated his commitment to securing the return of the remaining 101 hostages held by Hamas. Lloyd Austin, the U.S. Defense Secretary, had earlier criticized the high civilian casualty figures and called for a reduction in Israeli attacks on Beirut and its surrounding areas. Austin stated to reporters on the sidelines of the G7 Defense Ministers meeting in Italy that 'the number of civilian casualties is very high.' He said, 'Israel must reduce some of its attacks, especially on Beirut and surrounding areas.' He also expressed the U.S. willingness to negotiate between the conflicting parties and facilitate the return of civilians on both sides of the Lebanon-Israel border to their homes. A report from the Voice of America correspondent on the latest developments indicated ongoing clashes between Hezbollah and the Israeli army. Alireza Noorizadeh noted that the Iranian people are pleased with the deaths of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders; the government is in fear. The U.S. supported Israel's approach in the Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Netanyahu described his assassination plot as 'a big mistake' and is determined to 'change the security reality' in the Middle East. An analytical report from AFP discussed Iran's 'dual strategy' towards Israel. The government's spokesperson reacted to the indictment against a newspaper, suggesting that the cartoon designer intends to pursue community demands.