Israel Does Not Want to Fight Against Lebanese Hezbollah Movement, But Is Prepared for All Scenarios: Defense Minister

Israel does not wish to engage in conflict with the Lebanese Hezbollah movement; however, it is prepared for any developments, Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said during a conversation with reporters while visiting Washington.

"We do not want war, but Hezbollah is playing a dangerous game, and we will not tolerate attacks on our citizens and the tens of thousands of Israelis who have been forced to flee their homes," Gallant's remarks were quoted by the Jerusalem Post.

According to him, the main goal is to return Israeli citizens home safe and sound. "We prefer to do this based on mutual understanding, but we are ready for all possible scenarios," he stated.

Earlier on Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the border with Lebanon, where he observed Israeli military exercises and stated that the country would prevail in a conflict with Hezbollah.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has accused the international community of not taking sufficient action to prevent such a conflict.