Israeli officials question impact of Netanyahu’s Hezbollah directive
Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom, citing military officials, reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement ordering a forceful response against Hezbollah in Lebanon was intended as a “show of force” to ease internal pressure and shift responsibility onto the army.
Officials said there had been no substantive change in military instructions following the statement.
According to the report, the Israeli army continued operations in southern Lebanon in line with existing directives from the political leadership.
The report added that the announcement did not alter operational plans and suggested it was intended to address public criticism, noting that actions remained consistent with broader guidance, including those linked to a ceasefire framework announced by Donald Trump.
Demonstrators wearing Netanyahu and Trump masks protest outside White House in Washington on 25 April 2026. REUTERS/Ken Cedeno