A statement issued by Netanyahu’s office, denying rumors that he was the one who requested to change the itinerary of his tour so as not to include Metulla, said: “Contrary to false reports in the media, Prime Minister Netanyahu did not request to cancel his visit to Metulla today.”
He added: “The opposite is true, as Prime Minister Netanyahu repeatedly seeks to reach the depths of the region, while the security forces limit him.”
The statement continued: “In this case as well, the Prime Minister requested to come to Metulla, but the security forces instructed to change the course of the tour.”
Netanyahu said in statements: “I am here on the northern border. From here one can see and hear the changing reality. “The planes are flying above us and our heroic fighters are on the ground, beyond the border line, which will eliminate the entire secret terrorist network that the Lebanese factions prepared to raid the Galilee and carry out a massacre greater than what happened in Gaza, and this did not happen.”
He added: “We are striking all areas in Lebanon.”
Earlier on Sunday, the Israeli army confirmed that Netanyahu’s visit to the border with Lebanon coincided with the firing of more than 100 shells from Lebanon towards Israeli territory.
It is noteworthy that Netanyahu’s visit was accompanied by the Commander of the Northern Command, Major General Uri Gordin. There, he conducted an assessment of the operational situation and defense and attack plans for continued activity in the sector. According to the army statement.
Netanyahu also stressed that “with or without an agreement, the key to restoring peace and security in the north, and the key to returning our residents in the north to their homes safely, is first and foremost to push the Lebanese factions beyond the Litani River.”
He added: “Secondly, targeting any attempt to re-arm, and thirdly, responding firmly to any action taken against us.”
Source: RT
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**Interview with Dr. Eliana Cohen, Middle East Policy Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Cohen. Following the recent news about Prime Minister Netanyahu canceling his visit to Metula, can you shed some light on what led to this decision?
**Dr. Cohen:** Thank you for having me. The situation in Metula is quite delicate, especially given the ongoing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. The explosion of a drone, which is still under investigation, raised serious security concerns. Netanyahu’s cancellation is likely a precautionary measure to ensure his safety and to avoid escalating the situation further.
**Interviewer:** Netanyahu’s office has issued a statement denying reports that he intentionally changed his itinerary. Why might there be conflicting narratives around this decision?
**Dr. Cohen:** Conflicting narratives are common in politics, particularly in a region as complex as the Middle East. Netanyahu’s administration is keen to project stability and decisiveness. By publicly denying the rumors, they aim to maintain public confidence in his leadership. It’s also possible that there was pressure from security advisors, and that the situation changed rapidly, prompting the cancelation without it being a planned decision.
**Interviewer:** What implications could this cancellation have for Israeli-Lebanese relations, especially in terms of public perception?
**Dr. Cohen:** The perception can vary widely. On one hand, some may view his decision as a necessary safety precaution, which could appease certain segments of the populace who prioritize security. On the other hand, critics may argue it reflects a weakness in managing regional threats and could embolden adversaries. it adds to a narrative of uncertainty that continues to loom over Israeli-Lebanese relations.
**Interviewer:** What can we expect in the coming days regarding this situation?
**Dr. Cohen:** In the immediate term, we may see increased military activity along the border as Israeli forces remain vigilant. There may also be heightened diplomatic efforts to address the drone incident and any potential retaliation from militant groups in Lebanon. The Israeli government will likely engage in damage control to ensure that public sentiment leans towards support rather than fear in response to the cancellation.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Cohen, for your insights on this delicate matter.
**Dr. Cohen:** It was my pleasure. Thank you for having me.
