Gantz says 'moment of truth' approaching on Lebanon front

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz has reassured residents of northern Israel that the "moment of truth" is approaching in terms of how to proceed militarily against Hezbollah.

"This is the operations front with the greatest and most urgent challenge, and this is how we must treat it," said Gantz.

“I appeal from here to the evacuees, who will also celebrate Seder night outside their homes, and I promise: we see you. We recognize the enormous difficulty and your great courage. We will work to bring you home safely, even before the start of the school year" in September, Gantz added.

Since Hamas' unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel triggered war in Gaza, there have been near-daily cross-border exchanges of fire between the Israeli army and Hezbollah. The violence has killed at least 375 people in Lebanon, mostly fighters but including 70 civilians. In northern Israel, 10 soldiers and eight civilians have been killed, according to the army.

The fighting has also displaced tens of thousands of residents on both sides of the border and Israel has repeatedly warned that it might launch an operation against Hezbollah to secure its residents' return.