Home Front Command Ponders Preparing Country for War in North

February 2, 2024

by: Yossi Yehoshua ~ Ynetnews

Friday, 2 February 2024 | In recent weeks, tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have been steadily rising, raising concerns over the potential escalation of the conflict. While the intensity on the northern border may not have drastically changed, it is becoming increasingly apparent that this situation has the potential to spiral out of control. Both sides may not be actively seeking an all-out war, but the growing suspicion and mistrust between them is palpable.

Adding to the escalating tensions, last weekend reports surfaced in Lebanese media suggesting that Israel was preparing for an attack against Hezbollah. Such publications, whether based on truth or not, have the power to create additional strain and anxiety. They can impact the preparedness and response of Hezbollah as an organization, potentially pushing them into an emergency mindset.

At present, an announcement has been made regarding the Home Front Command’s consideration of a unique campaign aimed at enhancing preparedness for potential conflict in Lebanon. While it is crucial to ensure the readiness of the Israeli public, this decision has the potential to generate speculation on the opposing side, particularly considering Israel’s lack of interest in war and its pursuit of diplomatic solutions, much like Hezbollah.

Over the years, various proposals have been put forth for communication campaigns involving the Home Front Command, akin to the ones familiar to us for preparing bomb shelters or creating protected spaces within homes. These proposals included hypothetical scenarios that outlined the possession of 150,000 rockets by the terrorist organization in Lebanon, the capacity to launch over 4,000 rockets daily during regular combat, precision missile capabilities, attack drones and more. Some of these capabilities are currently being observed along the northern border.
Ultimately, after careful consideration, the Chiefs of Staff, to whom these proposals were presented, made the decision not to instill fear in the public.

The Home Front Command is currently grappling with the challenging decision of whether to launch a campaign to prepare the public for the possibility of war. The dilemma lies in the understanding that such a campaign, even in the absence of concrete intelligence indicating Hezbollah’s intention to initiate hostilities, could increase preparedness while simultaneously instilling panic among the public.

It is crucial to remember that we’re no longer in October 6 when examining the weighty question at hand. With the Israel Defense Force’s [IDF] active presence in the Strip, the firing toward southern communities has significantly decreased, and in recent weeks, the majority of the attacks have been directed toward the northern communities.

Since the war broke out, residents have gained a deep understanding of the potential repercussions of a conflict in the north. Hundreds of thousands have already taken the initiative to evacuate or seek refuge elsewhere, fully aware of Hezbollah’s capabilities and the responsibilities that come with a full-scale conflict.

Throughout the ongoing war, the Home Front Command has taken reasonable measures to equip citizens with the necessary tools to confront missile and rocket attacks, infiltration attempts and terrorist incursions. Remarkably, the number of casualties on the home front has remained remarkably low compared to the sheer volume of missiles fired towards Israel. This undoubtedly reflects the public’s attentiveness to instructions, which play a critical role in safeguarding the home front.

It is important to emphasize that the official guidance provided by the Home Front Command regarding war preparedness carries significant weight. Not only does it have the potential to induce public panic, but it can also result in shortages in the market and undermine the public’s trust, which is a delicate aspect of the relationship between the authorities and the military. As a result, the IDF conducts daily assessments and continuously evaluates the defense policy for the home front.

Major General Rafi Milo of the Home Front Command shoulders a significant responsibility as he formulates a recommendation for the next course of action. Given the sensitivity of the matter, such a campaign would also require approval from Chief of Staff Herzi Halevy and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Moreover, it is essential to acknowledge that any such campaign must include the coordination of expectations regarding the consequences for Hezbollah and the state of Lebanon resulting from the war.

Posted on February 2, 2024

Source: (Excerpt of an article originally published by Ynetnews on February 1, 2024. Time-related language has been modified to reflect our republication today. See original article at this link.)

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