Gallant tells troops to prepare for Lebanon ground op

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant oversaw military exercises in northern Israel, where he asked troops to prepare for an allegedly impending ground operation in Lebanon.

The exercises involved simulating ground combat in Lebanese territory.

"I’m impressed by the determination and professionalism I’ve witnessed over nearly a year, both in the North and the South," Gallant remarked.

"The center of gravity is shifting to the north. While we are wrapping up our missions in the South, an important task remains in the North: to restore security and allow residents to return to their homes," he said.

Gallant continued: "In the South, I gave the order to proceed after three weeks. The same will happen here, and you must be ready to execute that mission when the time comes."

"This arrow is ready to be fired, and we will know when to release it," he said. "Use this time wisely to prepare."

Gallant noted that some troops fighting in the South had assumed an entry into Gaza was just talk; however, within a week, he allegedly met with these same troops on the battlefield.

"We will know when to activate you," he warned before concluding that the troops "have everything" they need to "complete the mission."