For the first time since the start of the war on October 7, 2023, the northern border is returning to routine military operations. As the north is stabilizing from conflict with Hezbollah, reserve units are starting to withdraw from war-time procedures. Though these northern communities were once ghost towns under the specter of war, the northbound highway now has traffic on it. Businesses, tourist spots, hotels, and guest houses have opened their doors again. In the spring and summer, the cooler temperatures, closeness to nature, and water spots beckon many to come and enjoy.

Last fall, Israel’s largest reserve unit, the 146^th Division, was brought in to counter Hezbollah’s elite Radwan force. This force was overcome by Israel’s strategic planning and experienced enough set-backs for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to realize that it was time to release soldiers from duty. Regardless, the IDF has created a three-mile mini-security zone. Lieutenant Colonel K, the operations officer for Division 146, said:

Our goal is to maintain a five-kilometer [about three-mile] threat-free buffer. There are still Hezbollah elements farther in [Lebanon], even south of the Litani River, but they’re not an immediate threat. [Hezbollah] has lost a lot—fighters, commanders, capabilities. But it hasn’t lost its motivation. That’s why we’re staying vigilant.

Please pray for the reserve duty soldiers as they return home from weeks of service. Pray for peace and safety along the northern border.