Israel Urges Return to Strikes Over Rising Drone Threat
The Israeli government has demanded a fresh round of air strikes against Beirut following an uptick in drone attacks by Hezbollah. A fatal incident involving an Israeli soldier prompted Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to urge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to act decisively. Smotrich argued that every drone strike should trigger a substantial retaliatory attack, suggesting that ten buildings in Beirut could fall for each drone destroyed.
Netanyahu’s Defensive Stance
Netanyahu reportedly declined the call, favoring defensive tactics instead. The request came from a far‑right cabinet member who has previously pushed for annexation of southern Lebanon and Gaza. Another hard‑line minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, echoed this sentiment, urging the prime minister to alert U.S. President Donald Trump that war in Lebanon was imminent.
Hezbollah’s Drone Tactics
Hezbollah has intensified its use of inexpensive first‑person view (FPV) drones that can bypass Israeli jamming systems. These small, cable‑controlled craft have caused significant damage to troops stationed in southern Lebanon during a fragile ceasefire that began on April 16. While Israel has limited strikes against Beirut since the ceasefire, it continues to exchange fire with Hezbollah in the region.
Rally and Rhetoric
The militant group announced a rally on Monday evening to celebrate the 26th anniversary of Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem also heightened his rhetoric, encouraging protests against the Lebanese government without explicitly calling for armed action.
Budget and Military Planning
Smotrich has allocated a budget of 2 billion shekels—about $693 million—for new technologies to counter the drone threat. He insists that Israel must adapt its strategies and increase its response capabilities. In a cabinet meeting, military chief of staff Eyal Zamir reportedly suggested targeting buildings in Beirut as retaliation, though a spokesperson declined to confirm the claim.
Political Tensions
The political landscape remains tense, with Smotrich’s party facing challenges in securing parliamentary representation later this year. The debate over offensive versus defensive measures continues as both sides weigh the risks of escalating conflict.
