The incoming Israeli defense minister, Israel Katzassured this Sunday that the Shiite group Hezbollah has been defeated after Israel beheaded its leadership, according to statements during the investiture ceremony of the new Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, who has taken Katz’s place.
This afternoon, however, the Army announced that one person was injured in northern Israel after the launch of an anti-tank rocket from Lebanon, while another ten were launched against the occupied territories of the Golan Heights.
For his part, Saar accused the International Court of Justice of “denying Israel’s right to self-determination” and said the country remains one of the most threatened in the world, with powers like Iran calling “openly for its destruction.” .
Saar, who previously served in Israel’s education, interior and justice ministry, has alternated in recent years between supporting and opposing Netanyahu.
In his speeches prior to assuming the Foreign Ministry, he has demonstrated a tough stance against a Palestinian State and, in March, he distanced himself from the Government after the prime minister left him out of the war cabinet, now dismantled.
EFE
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**Interview with Dr. Rachel Cohen, Middle East Analyst**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Cohen. We just heard about Israel Katz’s statements asserting that Hezbollah has been defeated and the recent violence along the Israeli-Lebanese border. Can you provide some context on Katz’s assertions about Hezbollah?
**Dr. Cohen:** Thank you for having me. Katz’s declaration during the investiture ceremony is significant, especially given the ongoing tensions in the region. However, claiming Hezbollah has been “defeated” might be more aspirational than factual. While it is true that Israel has carried out operations that have disrupted Hezbollah’s leadership, the group remains a formidable force in Lebanon and continues to possess significant military capabilities.
**Editor:** Indeed, it seems contradictory given the recent violence from the northern border. Can you speak to the implications of the anti-tank rocket launches from Lebanon?
**Dr. Cohen:** Absolutely. The incidents of rocket fire—particularly the anti-tank missile aimed at northern Israel—highlight that tensions are still very much alive. It suggests that despite Katz’s claims, Hezbollah continues to project power and challenge Israeli security. This not only raises immediate concerns about civilian safety but also underlines the precarious balance of power in the region.
**Editor:** How do you think this statement by the new Defense Minister and the subsequent violence will affect Israeli public sentiment and policy?
**Dr. Cohen:** Katz’s bold claims may resonate with a segment of the Israeli public that desires strong leadership and decisive action against perceived threats. However, the reality of ongoing violence could lead to increased calls for a more nuanced approach rather than outright declarations of victory. It’s crucial for Israeli leadership to manage public expectations while navigating an often unpredictable security landscape.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Cohen, for your insights. As the situation develops, your expertise will be invaluable in understanding these complex dynamics.
**Dr. Cohen:** Thank you for having me. I look forward to discussing further developments as they unfold.
