THE Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallad told US special envoy Amos Hochstein that time is short to change the situation and find a diplomatic solution with Hezbollah.

“We are at a crossroads – there is a short window of time for diplomatic negotiations,” Gallant said during the meeting in Tel Aviv.

“We will not tolerate the threats posed by Hezbollah, and we will ensure the safety of our citizens.”

Galland also said that Israel is determined to change the security situation in northern Israel and along the border with Lebanon so that more than 80,000 displaced Israelis can return to their homes.

“There is only one possible outcome – a new reality in the northern arena, which will allow the safe return of our citizens. However, we are at a crossroads – there is a short window of time for diplomatic engagements, which we prefer. We will not tolerate the threats posed by the Iranian proxies, Hezbollah and we will ensure the safety of our citizens,” said Gallad.

Hochstein is in Israel as part of moves to prevent further escalation along the northern border.