A senior Israeli official said recent developments in Lebanon mark a significant shift in the regional balance, adding that the Israeli military’s accomplishments on the ground could help lay the groundwork for a more stable future.

Speaking to Al Hadath, the official described the current situation as a "drastic change" and linked Israel’s military operations in Lebanon to broader efforts to push back against Iranian influence in the region.

“The collapse of the Iran axis and our achievements in Lebanon will help the Lebanese government implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701,” the official said, referring to the 2006 resolution that ended the war between Israel and Hezbollah and called for the disarmament of armed groups south of the Litani River.

While the official ruled out a full-scale ground invasion of southern Lebanon, he emphasized that Israel remains fully prepared to respond to any escalation.

“We have no intention of launching a ground offensive in southern Lebanon, but we are ready for any scenario,” he said.

“We expect the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to continue collecting Hezbollah’s weapons. Once the army completes its mission according to the agreement, we will withdraw from the south and halt our targeting operations.”

The official added that Israel will continue to enforce the ceasefire agreement by targeting any Hezbollah operative or infrastructure it deems in violation of the terms.

“Israel will strike any Hezbollah member or infrastructure, in accordance with the ceasefire agreement,” he said.

The official expressed cautious optimism about the Lebanese government’s role in the disarmament process.

“The Lebanese government is serious about dismantling Hezbollah’s military capabilities in the south,” he said, noting that Israel appreciates the Lebanese Army’s efforts in collecting the group's weapons.