Israeli ministers call for cutting power to Lebanon, return to full-scale war

What Happened

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and at least one other senior Israeli minister publicly called for escalatory measures against Lebanon in response to recent Hezbollah drone attacks. Ben Gvir specifically advocated cutting electricity supplies to Lebanon, seizing control of the Zahrani River, and resuming full-scale military operations against Hezbollah. These statements follow a series of drone attacks launched from Lebanese territory, though the article does not specify the scale, timing, or impact of those strikes. The calls represent a significant departure from the current ceasefire arrangement and signal internal Israeli government pressure for renewed large-scale hostilities.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

Ben Gvir's proposals—particularly cutting electricity and seizing Lebanese water infrastructure—would constitute acts of collective punishment and territorial aggression likely to collapse the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah brokered in late 2024. His position as National Security Minister gives these statements political weight within the Israeli cabinet, even if they do not reflect current government policy. A return to full-scale war would re-open the northern front, strain Israeli military resources already committed in Gaza, and risk drawing in regional actors including Iran. The call to seize the Zahrani River, a critical water source for southern Lebanon, would also represent a significant escalation in Israel's territorial objectives and could trigger broader Lebanese state and international condemnation.

Watch For

Monitor whether Prime Minister Netanyahu or Defense Minister Gallant publicly endorse or reject Ben Gvir's proposals, as their response will indicate the government's actual policy direction. Watch for any Israeli military movements toward the Zahrani River or infrastructure strikes on Lebanese power facilities, which would signal implementation of these proposals. Track Hezbollah's response to these statements, including whether the group escalates drone or rocket attacks in retaliation. Observe international diplomatic reactions, particularly from the United States and France, which brokered the current ceasefire, and whether they issue warnings or apply pressure on Israel to maintain restraint.