The IDF explained that the extensive strikes in Lebanon were carried out as part of a new operation called "Eternal Darkness" - a focused and wide-ranging operation targeting all of Hezbollah's command and control centers in southern Lebanon, Beirut and the Bekaa Valley. The timing of the operation was explained as the result of operational conditions being met, regardless of the Iranian arena - meaning they did not wait for a ceasefire with Iran before launching the operation in Lebanon. The IDF also added that "the working assumption of the Air Force and the IDF is that the fighting with Iran will resume - and forces will need to operate again on short notice."