Report: Israel Moves Toward ‘Zero Hour’ as Hezbollah Rebuilds Capabilities

Israeli political and security authorities have reportedly begun preparing for potential military action against Hezbollah in Lebanon, according to a report by Yedioth Ahronoth on Tuesday.

The planning marks a move toward setting a so-called “zero hour” for action, amid growing concern over the Lebanese militant group’s increasing confidence and operational activity.

The newspaper said the Israeli military, in coordination with the Northern Command, is drafting a range of responses to what it describes as Hezbollah’s violations of the ceasefire agreement. All proposed options reportedly involve strict measures against the group, which has been quietly rebuilding its forces across southern Lebanon.

The proposed military options are expected to be presented to the Israeli Cabinet for approval. Yedioth Ahronoth noted, however, that the timing of any action depends on multiple factors, including ongoing political consultations with the United States, dialogue with the Lebanese government, and other regional developments.

“Even before a new war erupts, Israel will continue military operations against Hezbollah’s violations and its attempts to reconstitute itself,” the report said.

Israeli assessments indicate that since the ceasefire with Hamas three weeks ago, Hezbollah has grown more assertive across Lebanon. The group is reportedly taking advantage of Israel’s focus on regional calm to reorganize and strengthen its capabilities. Confidence appears highest in the southern Litani border area, where Hezbollah is reportedly rehabilitating damaged infrastructure, restoring weapons platforms, and rebuilding its military and logistical networks, including drone capabilities.

The report also highlighted that Hezbollah’s smuggling routes from Syria into Lebanon have been significantly disrupted, particularly following the fall of the Assad regime and the rise of Ahmed Al-Shara, who is opposed to both Hezbollah and Iranian influence. Despite these setbacks, Iranian funding for the group continues intermittently.

Israeli military assessments suggest that Hezbollah’s ceasefire violations have been escalating week by week. Meanwhile, the Lebanese army’s efforts to disarm the group, as pledged by the government months ago, have been slow, the report said.

Security sources in Tel Aviv warned that if the situation does not change, Israel will not remain idle, despite the relative success of the ceasefire enforcement mechanism.