- The Washington Times - Friday, December 15, 2023

Israel is increasing military training next to Lebanon even as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government reportedly seeks a diplomatic solution to separate Hezbollah forces from Israeli civilians.

On Friday, the Israel Defense Forces announced that reserve troops along the border with Lebanon are training for what it called “a range of circumstances,” including urban and rural combat operations day and night, as part of an operation called “Valuable Time.”

“The exercises contribute significantly to increasing troop readiness, particularly that of the reserve forces,” the IDF said on its Telegram social messaging page. “They are undergoing operational artillery training and receiving certification to operate various types of weapons.”

Israel said the drills are at the battalion and company levels to “best simulate integrated joint combat.” The IDF Northern Command also established a training base to “enhance force readiness.”

Although overshadowed by the fighting in the Gaza Strip, Iranian-linked Hezbollah fighters have launched nearly daily rocket attacks against Israel since Hamas launched its Oct. 7 rampage that resulted in the death of at least 1,200 people — mostly civilians — and hundreds of others taken hostage.

Israel forces have responded to the rocket barrages with their artillery strikes against Hamas fighters. They have also evacuated several communities along the border.

Meanwhile, Israel’s Kan TV channel this week said the Jewish state is “close” to reaching a diplomatic solution to the Hezbollah question, with Minister Benny Gantz holding talks with British and French officials that could result in Hezbollah forces moving from the border and strengthening U.N. troops in the area.

• Mike Glenn can be reached at mglenn@washingtontimes.com.

Copyright © 2024 The Washington Times, LLC. Click here for reprint permission.

Please read our comment policy before commenting.

Click to Read More and View Comments

Click to Hide