Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced a 48-hour nationwide state of emergency starting at 6:00 am (0300 GMT) on Sunday, following pre-emptive strikes carried out by the Israeli military in Lebanon.
“The declaration of a state of emergency enables the IDF (Israeli military) to issue instructions to the citizens of Israel, including limiting gatherings and closing sites where it may be relevant,” Gallant stated in an official release from his office.
Expressing concern over potential threats, Gallant noted, “I am convinced that there is a high probability of an attack against the civilian population in areas of the country where the declaration of a special situation did not apply.”
He further declared, “I hereby declare a special situation on the home front in other areas of the country.
The situation is valid for 48 hours starting at 6:00 am.”
In a separate communication, the Defense Ministry revealed that Gallant had briefed U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on the situation.
“We have conducted precise strikes in Lebanon in order to thwart an imminent threat against the citizens of Israel,” Gallant informed Austin, emphasizing Israel’s vigilance.
“We are closely following developments in Beirut, and we are determined to use all the means at our disposal in order to defend our citizens.”
The statement added that Gallant and Austin “discussed the importance of avoiding regional escalation.”
