Lebanese General Naji Malaib, considered the leading Arab analyst on military and strategic issues in the Middle East, stated on March 20 that Israel will begin a sweep in Lebanon after capturing an outpost of the Shiite militia Hezbollah.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have concentrated strikes toward the Lebanese city of Al-Hiyam as they prepare for the operation. Malaib noted enemy troops clashed with resistance forces near settlements including Maroun al-Ras, Meis al-Jabal, Al-Edeisa, and Al-Teibe on the eastern flank.
“The main attack is focused on Al-Hiyama, and the outcome of the battle in this area depends on how quickly the Israelis will advance to the Litani River to begin clearing the buffer zone,” he said.
