Israeli Minister Urges 'Large-Scale War' on Lebanon, Cutting Electricity

Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to escalate the conflict with Lebanon, demanding a return to "large-scale war" and the severing of Lebanon's electricity supply. Ben-Gvir made his demands via the social media platform X, stating, "It is time for the Prime Minister (Netanyahu) to bang on Trump's desk and inform him that we are returning to war in Lebanon."

His comments come days after Israeli authorities reportedly abused activists from the Global Flotilla Sumud, an incident that drew international condemnation. The Israeli military reported that Hezbollah launched several explosive drones, with one impacting the Israeli community of Metula, near the border, following air raid alerts.

Ben-Gvir further elaborated on his aggressive stance, proposing that Israel should cut off electricity to Lebanon, mirroring actions taken at the start of its offensive in Gaza. He also advocated for occupying Lebanese territory up to the Zahrani River, approximately 40 kilometers north of the Israeli border. This call for occupation follows reports of Israeli forces penetrating about 10 kilometers into Lebanese territory in April.

Despite a ceasefire agreement extended for another 45 days in mid-April, Israel continues its daily attacks on Lebanese territory. Reports also indicate ongoing demolitions of homes in occupied areas in southern Lebanon.

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It is time for the Prime Minister (Netanyahu) to bang on Trump's desk and inform him that we are returning to war in Lebanon.