Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth estimated that Israel could decide to enter a new military confrontation with Hezbollah in Lebanon before the end of December if it receives approval from the U.S. administration.

The report on Wednesday noted that while Hezbollah has weakened, it remains well-armed.

The newspaper added that Israeli defense officials believe no operation would be carried out without U.S. approval, making any action unlikely before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s planned visit to Washington later this month.