IDF chief: Army prepared for any scenario

In light of alertness at northern border, difficult fighting in Gaza, soldiers ask Ashkenazi: Can we feel safe?
Ynet

IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Gabi Ashkenazi on Friday addressed the prevailing tension at Israel's northern border during an interview with IDF Radio.

Speaking to lone soldiers who participated in the show, he was asked whether citizens could feel safe despite the anxiety felt in the north of Israel.

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He answered, "I think we can feel safe, we haven't recognized anything unusual on the other side of the border. However, we are prepared for any development. IDF soldiers will continue to make sure this status continues."

Alertness on the northern border has been increased recently due to the suspicion that Hizbullah would attempt an act of revenge for the assassination of its top commander Imad Mugniyah, which would lead to a severe response from Israel, and in turn perhaps a war with Syria.

Referring to the situation in Gaza, Ashkenazi said that "the fighting there is difficult, long, and demanding, but the IDF soldiers fighting there are filled with understanding and motivation to do the job well in order to provide the residents of the area with peace. We are determined to continue fighting until we stop the terrorism in Gaza."

Ashkenazi plans to celebrate Passover with Givati troops.

Syrian President Bashar Assad said earlier this week that his country was preparing for war with Israel, though chances were slim this would occur. Speaking at a conference in Damascus, Assad said, "None of us can rule out the option of war, but it is arguable whether Israel will launch war against Lebanon or Syria, or whether the United States will launch a war against Iran.

"We should analyze the situation from the perspective of American interests, because the last war in Lebanon has shown that at some point Israel wanted to stop the fighting, but was forced by the US administration to pursue it further," he stated.