The IDF said on Saturday that it is addressing plans for a retaliatory strike after Iran's missile launch, noting that the fighting is unfolding in seven different arenas simultaneously. In addition to ongoing battles in Gaza and the West Bank, the IDF is also operating in Lebanon, Iran and against Iran's proxies in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq.
Iran and its proxies
The confrontation with Iran is classified as direct, leading to concerns that Iran may not limit its actions to using proxies in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, Yemen, and Iraq. While the IDF is preparing a significant response, no details have been disclosed regarding the nature of the retaliation. With Iran having launched 201 missiles and drones toward Israel, some of which hit targets, there is widespread support within the IDF for a measured response that minimizes risks while maximizing strategic opportunities.
IDF officials also confirmed that Israel's defense systems performed well during the missile barrages this week.
Additionally, operations are underway to prevent arms transfers from Iran to Hezbollah via Syria and Yemen. The IDF has stressed its commitment to stopping these smuggling efforts. Military sources reported that following attacks on a Yemeni seaport used by the Houthis for oil shipments and two power stations, preparations are already in place for the next phase of action.
Lebanon
The IDF is conducting targeted raids to dismantle offensive infrastructure and push Hezbollah operatives further back, aiming to ensure the safe return of northern residents to their homes. Large quantities of weapons, including numerous Kornet missiles, have been uncovered. Since the start of ground operations in Lebanon, an estimated 400 Hezbollah operatives have been killed, including company and battalion commanders responsible for sectors in Har Dov, Marwahin, Merkava, and other regions.
In Beirut, the strikes have focused on command centers and warehouses, dealing major damage to the Shiite district of Dahiya, which has been almost entirely evacuated. Command and control systems in Beirut and its surroundings have also been targeted.
A military blockade has been imposed on Lebanon, with the IDF’s Operations Directorate deciding what enters and leaves the country. Both military and civilian crossings used for arms transfers from Syria have been attacked, and unmanned aircraft are patrolling these border points. In the last 24 hours, Iranian aircraft have turned back before entering Lebanese airspace.
The IDF has made it clear that their goal is to eliminate Hezbollah's presence near the Lebanon border once the fighting ends. Military officials believe there is potential for broader change in Lebanon, but achieving these goals will require a prolonged and extensive military campaign. Current conditions, according to IDF assessments, offer the potential to not only change the security landscape in southern Lebanon but also transform the entire country.
Gaza
Most of the tunnels in the Philadelphi Corridor have been located and destroyed, but fighting continues in Rafah and along the corridor. The Southern Command is preparing to expand the humanitarian corridor while reinforcing its offensive operations.
The West Bank
Counterterrorism efforts are ongoing across the region, including an airstrike in Tulkarm against a group planning attacks. Reserve battalions have been deployed to bolster security in the area.
International cooperation
The IDF expects support from Israel’s allies, including the United States, which shares a vested interest in countering Iranian aggression. Military officials emphasize that Western allies understand Israel's determination to eliminate threats from Lebanon and Gaza and that Iranian attacks cannot be tolerated.