U.S.-Israel Exercise Prepares for Possible Lebanon War

A U.S. military delegation from CENTCOM consisting of 35 officers, eight of them with the rank of general or admiral spent three days in Israel in June 2022. They came to participate in joint military drills along Israel’s northern border to coordinate air defenses, intelligence, and logistics if fighting breaks out with Hezbollah.

Despite U.S. participation, American forces are not expected to participate in a confrontation. Nevertheless, Amos Harel noted, “publicity and the joint aerial training are intended also to project a regional force, which will be taken note of in Tehran and also in friendly Arab states.”

The exercise took place as Hezbollah was enhancing its military infrastructure. Israel disclosed the group had built 15 new observation posts along Israel’s northern border. “Hezbollah is basing itself on the confrontation line. They are trying to camouflage it as activities of a ‘green’ organization, but it is clear to us who is behind these [sites] and the people who operate in the area,” said Lt. Col. Avshalom Dadon.

Sources: Amos Harel, “Israeli, U.S. conducted joint exercise simulating escalation on northern border,” Haaretz, (June 22, 2022).
Amos Harel, “Large U.S. Army Delegation in Israel Reflects Tighter Ties, and Sends a Powerful Message,” Haaretz, (June 24, 2022).
Emanuel Fabian, “Hezbollah said to have built 15 new observation posts, all along border with Israel,” Times of Israel, (June 25, 2022).
Jason Medina, “CENTCOM leaders visit Tel Aviv, focus on regional partnerships,” U.S. Central Command, (June 29, 2022).

Photo: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit.