IDF Says 500 Terrorists Killed in North Since Start of Operation
A senior Israeli military officer announced on Wednesday that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has killed over 500 terrorists in the northern region of the country since the beginning of Operation Northern Shield.
The operation, launched on December 3, aims to neutralize Hezbollah’s precision-guided missile infrastructure, known as the "Project Dawn", in the Lebanese border region. The Israeli military has been conducting extensive military operations in the area, including airstrikes and ground missions, to dismantle the Hezbollah infrastructure.
The senior officer, who spoke to a gathering of journalists on condition of anonymity, said that the IDF has made significant progress in its efforts to neutralize the terrorist threat. "Since the beginning of Operation Northern Shield, we have eliminated over 500 terrorists in the north, including high-ranking members of Hezbollah," the officer stated.
The officer also highlighted the importance of the operation in preventing future attacks on Israeli citizens. "Hezbollah’s precision-guided missiles pose a significant threat to the Israeli home front, and our mission is to eliminate this threat and ensure the safety of our citizens," the officer said.
The Israeli military has been conducting daily airstrikes and artillery fire on suspected Hezbollah targets in the border region, with the aim of destroying the group’s military infrastructure. The operation has also involved the deployment of ground troops, who have been tasked with conducting reconnaissance missions and identifying and destroying Hezbollah strongpoints.
The IDF has also reported the seizure of significant amounts of military equipment and materials, including rockets, missiles, and military vehicles, during the operation. The equipment is believed to have been stockpiled by Hezbollah for future use against Israel.
The operation has also led to the displacement of hundreds of residents in the border region, who have been forced to flee their homes due to the heavy bombardment and fighting. Many have sought shelter in nearby cities, where they are being provided with aid and support by local authorities.
Hezbollah has vowed to retaliate against Israel for the operation, but has not yet launched any significant attacks. The group’s leaders have instead been focusing on condemning the Israeli military action and calling on its supporters to mobilize against the Israeli army.
Despite the challenges posed by the operation, the Israeli military remains committed to its goals, with the senior officer stating that the IDF will continue to "do whatever it takes to eliminate the terrorist threat and ensure the safety of our citizens".