IDF expands operations on multiple fronts as US strikes Iran

From southern Lebanon to the Iranian coast, Israeli forces face a complex multi-theater reality.

IDF expands operations on multiple fronts as US strikes Iran — IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir told graduates of the National Security College that the military must "significantly expand its ranks and lead technological transformation in robotics, drones, and artificial intelligence." He declared that "we must not exempt anyone from the duty of defending the state," framing conscription as an operational necessity and a Zionist and moral obligation.[^1] The speech came as the IDF faces simultaneous pressures: a ground operation in southern Lebanon, a potential escalation with Iran, and internal unrest over haredi draft dodging. In southern Lebanon, IDF forces eliminated two Hezbollah Radwan Force operatives and captured a third who surrendered during an operation in Bint Jbeil.[^2] A senior IDF officer said the military is "striking any attempt by Hezbollah to approach areas under Israeli control, including attempts to reach underground openings." The IDF also released aerial footage showing Hezbollah operatives moving from northern to southern Lebanon toward the area opposite the yellow line in recent days.[^3] Meanwhile, the United States has begun returning refueling aircraft to the Middle East and Israel after they were previously evacuated to Europe.[^4] US Central Command confirmed additional strikes against Iran on July 8, with Israeli sources assessing that fire is concentrated around the Strait of Hormuz.[^5] A senior Operations Directorate official, Colonel A., told Channel 14 in an interview to be broadcast Thursday: "We're Not Done with Iran, There Are More Surprises." He presented two alternatives for the Iranian regime: cooperation and abandoning its nuclear program, or collapse if it refuses.[^6] At home, soldiers guarding Military Prison 10 clashed with haredi rioters who infiltrated the complex, highlighting the deepening divide over conscription.[^7] Zamir's insistence on universal service faces a real-world test as haredi protesters challenge military authority. The IDF's ability to sustain operations on multiple fronts while managing internal friction remains an open question. Coalition tensions flare over Haredi conscription, bud