Live updates: Walkie-talkie and pager attacks in Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah targets

Israel has severely disrupted Hezbollah’s communications network, potentially paving the way for an imminent military offensive in Lebanon, says CNN intelligence and security analyst Bob Baer.

This week’s attacks prevented Hezbollah from effectively coordinating its operations, which, according to the former CIA agent, gave Israel a significant strategic advantage in the conflict.

Baer noted that recent comments by Israel’s defense minister indicate a shift in focus on Hezbollah, with Israel now “pivoting north” after concentrating on Gaza. He said this escalation could lead to an invasion or large-scale bombardment of Lebanon.

Baer called Israel’s penetration of Hezbollah’s supply and communications network a “major defeat” for the group. This tactical success has hampered Hezbollah’s ability to mobilize forces, coordinate attacks and manage logistics.

“The fact that Israel has penetrated their supply network is unprecedented,” Baer noted, stressing that disrupting Hezbollah’s use of walkie-talkies was particularly damaging because Hezbollah relies on these radios to transmit fire coordinates, move ammunition and communicate in real time.

This leaves Hezbollah vulnerable should Israel push ahead with its military plans.

Baer, ​​who has been following Hezbollah for years, expressed astonishment at the precision and scale of the Israeli operation.

Baer said the operation reflected Israel’s remarkable technical capabilities and stressed that Hezbollah has long been known for its disciplined and secure communications, making Israel’s breakthrough all the more significant.

He also said the operation could serve as a warning to other hostile actors in the region. Israel’s ability to penetrate Hezbollah’s communications network could signal to countries like Syria, Egypt and Jordan that their systems could be vulnerable to similar infiltrations.