Defense Minister Ehud Barak stated on Tuesday that it is not coincidental that IDF forces are continuing to conduct “intensive” training exercises in the north, well-aware that Hizbullah and Syria are strengthening their forces for a future conflict.

Mr. Barak made his comments as he observed a major tank exercise in the Golan Heights.

Accompanied by IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi, Barak stated UN Resolution 1701, which brought about the ceasefire that ended the Second Lebanon War, has not accomplished its intended goal, namely the disarming of Hizbullah. The senior minister stated Israel is carefully monitoring events, and the possibility of a shift in the balance of power as Hizbullah continues to acquire new weapons from Syria and Iran, including anti-aircraft systems.

Referring to the Gaza ceasefire, the minister stated for the most part it has been successful, citing some 10 incidents of rocket fire as compared to hundreds of rockets fired into the southern area before the agreement. He added the period of calm must be used to prepare for a future conflict with Hamas.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)