Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin that the time for a diplomatic solution to clashes with Hezbollah on the northern border was passing.

He emphasized that Hezbollah is aligning itself with Hamas, noting that the direction is clear.

He added, "We will continue to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of its hostages by any means necessary."

Regarding the Houthi missile, Gallant pointed out that Israel has already demonstrated how it deals with entities attempting to harm it, stating that the Houthis pose a regional threat.

In the same context, an Israeli radio reported that sources close to Prime Minister Netanyahu are threatening to dismiss the Defense Minister if he continues to oppose the expansion of military operations in Lebanon.

Meanwhile, Israeli sources cited the commander of the Northern Brigade, who stated that his forces are prepared to occupy a security strip on the Lebanese side.