IDF resumes routine ops on northern border

The IDF force ambushed on the Lebanon border Tuesday will return to the skirmish scene on Wednesday in order to complete its mission of clearing trees in an border-area.

Lieutenant Colonel Dov Harari was killed by Lebanese fire and another officer were seriously wounded Tuesday when the forces were attacked by the Lebanon army while performing the routine mission.

Military sources said that the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has been informed both on Tuesday and on Wednesday that the IDF plans to operate in the area. Several hours after the incident, IDF commanders announced they do not intend to avoid the enclaves or end operations to remove border-area vegetation as this would create a dangerous vacuum that may serve Hezbollah.

"These are legitimate, reasonable and necessary actions that will not be halted," a military source said.

Meanwhile, the Lebanese army said it would respond to any new Israeli "aggression."

'Next few days will be a test'

The IDF also stressed that Lebanon must understand that any action against Israeli forces will be met with a tough response - possibly harsher than Israel's response Tuesday.

The IDF says it's preparing to resume all routine activity on the Lebanon border's western sector.

"No doubt, the next few days will be tenser and serve as a test," an army official said. "It appears that the IDF's response yesterday conveyed a clear message to the Lebanese army and particularly to the Lebanese government... Nevetheless, we shall be ready for any development."

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