Israel made a grave strategic mistake by agreeing to a ceasefire in Lebanon, allowing the terrorist organization Hezbollah to regroup and plan future attacks. The deal, which was brokered after a devastating war between Israel and Hezbollah, has proven to be a recipe for disaster.
Hezbollah is down but not out, and the ceasefire has given it an opportunity to refine its strategy and plan further violence. Former Lebanese president Amin Gemayel warned that the ceasefire would lead to another war, citing the historical precedent of the 2006 Second Lebanon War. In that conflict, Israel’s government agreed to a ceasefire, only to see Hezbollah rebuild and expand its arsenal.
The current ceasefire deal has failed to address key issues, including the disarmament of Hezbollah and the creation of a buffer zone in southern Lebanon. It also allows residents of villages near the border with Israel to return home, potentially providing Hezbollah terrorists with safe haven.
The agreement is seen as a result of Israel’s willingness to buy time until a new US administration takes office, rather than taking a firm stance against Hezbollah. This approach sets the stage for another war and undermines Israel’s national deterrence.
Israel has a historic opportunity to destroy Hezbollah and restore its national security, but instead it is squandering that chance. The writer argues that Israel must demonstrate courage to win and avoid leaving Hezbollah in place to regroup and plan further attacks.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-832127