Israel may wage 'preemptive' strike if Hezbollah preparing attack

Israel’s security and political affairs cabinet has authorized “preemptive” strikes on Hezbollah if Israel determines that the Iran-backed Lebanese group is preparing to launch an attack related to the maritime gas dispute.

In its session on Thursday, the cabinet said it authorizes “the possibility of launching preemptive offensive operations” should Israel obtain “credible information” that Hezbollah is “preparing to wage an attack,” Lebanon’s pro-Hezbollah newspaper al-Akhbar reported on Friday.

“Prime Minister Yair Lapid, Defense Minister Benny Gantz and Alternate PM Naftali Bennett have been authorized to assume this mission without asking for cabinet’s permission,” the daily added.