Hezbollah terrorists have increasingly approached IDF positions on the northern border with Lebanon, reservist fighters stationed in the eastern sector of Israel's Galilee Division said.
The operatives, often disguised as agricultural workers, have reportedly been spotted more frequently in recent weeks. According to soldiers, Hezbollah members have been seen approaching IDF forces while carrying hoes or performing tasks in the fields, presenting themselves as part of agricultural work.
"They come near the forces under the pretext of being farmers, holding hoes or working the land. In reality, everyone knows their true intent is to gather intelligence or assess the forces' readiness," one soldier said.
After several reports from the field, which were corroborated by intelligence indicating that the individuals were Hezbollah operatives, the IDF decided to take action deep within Lebanese territory. As part of the response, signs were placed near civilian homes in Lebanon, warning residents that the IDF had identified Hezbollah operatives in the area and advising them to avoid approaching the border or IDF positions.
The fighters criticized the IDF's response as "ridiculous," and added that they had hoped for a more decisive action, such as arrests or the use of force to push back the operatives.
IDF reports more Hezbollah terrorists approach northern border
This week, Northern Command Commander Major General Rafi Milou held a meeting with officers in the sector, presenting the findings of an IDF General Staff investigation into the October 7 events and the actions directed by Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi. Milou confirmed aspects of the reservists' reports regarding the situation in the field.
The primary concern for commanders in the sector is Hezbollah’s attempt to carry out targeted attacks on IDF forward positions within Lebanese territory - or, more alarmingly, to infiltrate into Israeli territory.
"The Radwan force is rebuilding its capabilities. While it no longer has the same infrastructure as before Operation Northern Shield, it is actively advancing plans against Israel, with support from Iran," one commander said.
Estimates from Northern Command suggest that while the Intelligence Division and other intelligence bodies are expanding their target list, the political echelon is also working to secure international legitimacy, especially from the White House, ahead of a potential large-scale operation targeting Hezbollah.
This comes as the IDF struck Hezbollah training camps in Lebanon.