IDF Chief: Hezbollah Disarmament Cannot Advance Unless Lebanese Army Becomes More Effective

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said today (Wednesday), during a visit to Division 91, that the IDF is determined to clear the area south of the Litani River of Hezbollah’s presence and prevent the organization from rebuilding its capabilities. Zamir added: “As long as the Lebanese Army does not significantly improve its effectiveness on the ground, it will not be possible to advance Hezbollah’s disarmament as part of an agreement with the Lebanese government.”

The IDF chief toured Division 91 alongside Northern Command chief Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo, Operations Directorate chief Maj. Gen. Itzik Cohen, Planning Directorate chief Maj. Gen. Hedi Silberman, Northern Corps commander Maj. Gen. Yaki Dolf, Division 91 commander Brig. Gen. Yuval Gaz, Combat Intelligence Collection and Borders Corps commander Brig. Gen. Dvir Edri, and other commanders.

During the visit, the IDF chief conducted an operational assessment, reviewing the situation in the sector and the forces’ deployment. As part of the assessment, intelligence-gathering soldiers, the Yahalom unit, and Division 91 reservists presented robotic capabilities and advanced weapons systems that assist forces in their missions and strengthen defensive capabilities in the area.

The IDF chief approved the principles of the area’s defense strategy and gave commanders guidance on force readiness, strengthening operational preparedness, and maintaining a high level of alertness in line with developments in the sector and operational missions.

Zamir: “We are operating from forward defensive zones based on our presence deep inside enemy territory beyond the border, in accordance with the updated operational doctrine. Our forces are working to thwart threats while strengthening the defense of northern communities and residents. The campaign is still not over, and the challenges are still ahead of us.”

“We have achieved many significant operational accomplishments and weakened Hezbollah. The IDF is determined to clear the area south of the Litani River of Hezbollah’s presence, while advancing the ongoing overarching goal of disarming the terrorist organization.”

According to Zamir, “The battlefield is changing rapidly. This challenge requires us to remain in constant motion, learn quickly, and improve all the time. As part of the lessons we learned during the war, we are developing new capabilities and expanding the use of manned and unmanned systems, with the goal of increasing operational effectiveness.”

“In the coming months, we will inaugurate the Robotics Branch, which will develop capabilities in the air, at sea, and on land. What you see here is only the beginning. The capabilities you deployed in the campaign and in the battle for Beaufort and on the Ali Taher Ridge were impressive, increased operational effectiveness, and saved the lives of our fighters. We will continue moving forward quickly, developing and adapting to the changing reality, and serving as a global leader in this field.”