Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz remarked that “the crisis in Lebanon is devastating. The State of Israel calls on the international community to aid Lebanon. We are also willing to provide assistance. However, we will not let the tragedy in Lebanon cross the border into Israel”. He further noted that “we are well aware of Hizbollah’s attempts to exploit the situation at the expense of the safety and livelihoods of Lebanese citizens – under the direct influence of Iran”. Gantz went on to say that “Iran is the greatest threat to global and regional peace. Israel will not stand by while Iran advances its nuclear program… This is the time for joint action”.