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Barak: Lebanon sovereignty at risk

Defense Minister says Iranian president's visit to Lebanon indicates Hezbollah's dependence on Iran growing; says Israel must remain vigilant

Hagai Einav|Published: 10.13.10 , 21:14

"Ahmadinejad visit to Lebanon reflects Hezbollah's growing dependence on Iran," Defense Minister Ehud Barak said Wednesday, as he toured the Golan Heights and met with Division 401 of the IDF.

"Lebanon might cease to be an independent nation, and we must watch and consider the matter, whether form the intelligence aspect or the military one."

As for the state of the negations with the Palestinian Authority, he said that the government is focusing on both an effort for peace and national security.

Vigilant. Barak (Photo: Avihu Shapira)

"These days we leave no stone unturned in an attempt to achieve a peace accord. It is essential for us to reach an arrangement that will protect the safety of Israel, alongside ending the disagreement and the mutual demands between us and the Palestinians.

"We have a moral obligation to bring Gilad Shalit, back home to his family, safe and sound," he added.

Later Wednesday, Barak met with several hundred high school students participating in the "In the Footsteps of Fighters" project – a Defense Ministry initiative meant to encourage graduates to enlist in the IDF's combat divisions.