Preparing the groundwork for war? IDF releases unusual message on Lebanon

A short time ago (Thursday), the IDF released a statement regarding IDF strikes in Hezbollah which may hint at possible broader operations and provide justification for them.

The statement reads:

"The IDF is now striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon to harm and degrade the organization's terrorist capabilities and military infrastructures. The Hezbollah terrorist organization has turned southern Lebanon into a combat zone, arming the homes of civilians with weapons for decades, digging tunnels underneath them, and using them as a human shield.

"The IDF is working to create security in the north which will allow for the return of the residents to their homes, and to achieve all the other war aims."

Relatedly, the IDF Chief of Staff just approved war plans for the north a short time ago.

The government voted to include the safe return of the northern residents to their homes as a war aim a few days ago.