'If order given, we will take over Beirut': IDF Golani cmndr. tells 'Post' about Wadi Saluki op.

An Israeli military commander has declared his forces are ready to advance into Beirut if given the order, underscoring the readiness of the Golani Brigade for any escalation. The commander, identified only as "M" and leading Battalion 13, spoke in an interview following his unit's recent operation in southern Lebanon.

“

If the orders are handed down, the Golani Brigade is ready for anything, including advancing its ground forces to take over Beirut.

His battalion recently took control of the Wadi Saluki area, a move he believes enhances the safety of Israeli civilians by pushing back Hezbollah's drone and rocket launching lines. Despite this progress, he noted that the threat from FPV drones persists. M, who has 15 years of service in the IDF and has served in Gaza, described encountering periodic Hezbollah resistance and engaging in close-range combat since the IDF's invasion of Lebanon in early March.

“

There is a lot of strong spirit.

During their operations in Wadi Saluki, M's battalion discovered and destroyed Hezbollah weapons and tunnels, including materials from Iran detailing military strategy and maps. He expressed pride in his battalion's accomplishments, noting their strong spirit. The takeover of Wadi Saluki occurred about two weeks prior, coinciding with other Golani units securing Beaufort Castle. M described the challenging river crossings and the significant firepower provided by air force, tanks, and artillery units that supported their advance against Hezbollah forces.

“

When we got the order that we can stay there and take over areas, our officers formulated our battle strategy and rules. Then we went out at night and penetrated through the Saluki area.