Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat said Israel must impose a heavy price on Lebanon in response to escalating attacks by Hezbollah along the northern border. During a situational assessment at the Binyamin Regional Council, he argued that residents of southern Lebanon should not be allowed to return to their homes until the area is cleared of terrorist threats and demilitarized up to the Litani River.

Barkat stated that southern Lebanon has become a missile launch zone and a base for attacks against Israeli citizens, and that the Lebanese population should recognize that Hezbollah and the Iranian Revolutionary Guards are responsible for turning their villages into military targets. He suggested that sustained pressure on the civilian population could increase internal opposition to Hezbollah's activities.

Addressing the situation on the Israeli home front, Barkat emphasized the importance of maintaining daily routines alongside strict adherence to safety guidelines. He said that continuing work, education, and economic activity, when proper protection is available, strengthens national resilience.

Binyamin Regional Council Governor Yisrael Ganz praised residents for their resilience as hundreds of missile interceptions occur overhead, and called for keeping schools and businesses open in accordance with safety instructions. He stressed that a strong civilian population is essential for national victory and stability.