The Times of Israel Daily Briefing IDF ramps up Hezbollah strikes as Iran supports proxy group
Feb 22, 2026
Emanuel Fabian, a military correspondent who covers IDF operations and Iran-related threats, breaks down rising IDF strikes on Hezbollah and why Iran’s IRGC presence in Lebanon matters. He outlines Hezbollah’s remaining rocket and drone capabilities. He also discusses the arrival of the USS Gerald Ford and how settler breaches of the Gaza border have affected Israeli military focus.
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IDF Focuses On Hezbollah Missile Forces
- Israel has stepped up strikes focused on Hezbollah's rocket and missile forces after detecting preparations for coordinated attacks.
- Emanuel Fabian says recent strikes targeted three missile command centers and killed senior operatives as Israel seeks to prevent Hezbollah reconstitution.
IRGC Officers Seen Rebuilding Hezbollah In Lebanon
- Iran is actively supporting Hezbollah's rebuilding with funding and likely IRGC officers on the ground in Lebanon.
- Fabian notes IRGC advisors are training and directing Hezbollah because Syria-based routes are mostly cut off after the war.
Hezbollah Still Has Long Range Strike Capability
- Hezbollah remains capable of long-range strikes despite being degraded from its prewar arsenal.
- Fabian says they retain thousands of rockets, fewer long-range missiles, drones, and can still reach Tel Aviv and beyond.