Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has declared a 48-hour nationwide state of emergency, starting at 06:00 am (0300 GMT) on Sunday, following a series of pre-emptive strikes carried out by the Israeli military in Lebanon. Gallant announced the emergency in a statement from his office, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures due to the heightened risk of attacks on Israel’s civilian population.
The state of emergency grants the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) the authority to issue directives to Israeli citizens, including restrictions on public gatherings and the closure of certain sites deemed at risk. Gallant expressed his concern about the increased likelihood of attacks in areas previously unaffected by local emergency measures. “I am convinced that there is a high probability of an attack against the civilian population in areas of the country where the declaration of a special situation did not apply,” Gallant stated. He added that the special situation on the home front is now extended to additional regions for the next 48 hours.
In a separate communication, the Israeli Defence Ministry disclosed that Gallant had briefed US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on the ongoing situation. Gallant informed Austin that the strikes in Lebanon were carried out to prevent an imminent threat to Israeli citizens. He assured that Israel is closely monitoring the developments in Beirut and is fully committed to using all necessary means to defend its people.
The discussions between Gallant and Austin also touched on the critical importance of preventing a broader regional escalation, reflecting the delicate balance Israel aims to maintain amid rising tensions.
