"Not only the Northern Command determines policy": Menachem Horowitz on the situation in the North
Journalist Menachem Horowitz discussed the tense security situation on the northern border and the alarming weekend experienced by residents during an interview on 103fm radio.
Residents of the northern border experienced a restless weekend as the IDF operated in southern Lebanon, destroying tunnels on the Ali-Taher ridge. Residents were notified in advance to expect intense activity by forces across all sectors, including artillery fire and explosions. Following these events, veteran journalist and Kiryat Shmona resident Menachem Horowitz spoke this morning with Gideon Oko and Prof. Aryeh Eldad on 103fm radio, discussing the explosive reality in the region and the strategic goals of the Israeli presence.
"The question is what are we doing now — what is the strategy? What are we seeking to achieve? Ultimately, policy is determined not only by the IDF's Northern Command, but also by the US Central Command," Horowitz stated.
He added: "The President of the United States said himself: 'I have friends in Hezbollah, and we are talking to them.' Naim Qassem sits in Beirut and says: 'My friend will protect me and protect Lebanon.'"
Horowitz shared his experience of the weekend: "We received a message: residents of the northern border and tens of thousands of travelers must understand that the IDF will attack in Lebanon and you will hear explosions. I have to explain to my grandchildren that this is normal military activity. At three in the morning, you hear evacuation helicopters, and I understand there are casualties in Lebanon. I call it 'relative quiet,' because the concept of 'quiet' in the region is always relative."
The escalation occurred on a Saturday when tens of thousands of Israelis went north for vacation. "There is a large presence of travelers here. Some called to ask for my opinion," the journalist noted. "It undoubtedly affects the situation, which is a pity. The weather was pleasant this weekend, and the kayaks were operating around the clock."
In conclusion, Horowitz encouraged Israelis to continue visiting the North: "If there are listeners debating whether to come or not — you are invited, come." Upon hearing that Prof. Eldad intends to visit his area this week, he smiled and invited him for coffee, asking him to bring a pastry.
