Israel's Targeted Campaign Against Hezbollah: A Strategic Analysis
In a calculated military campaign, Israel is systematically targeting Hezbollah's leadership and military infrastructure, particularly in the southern suburbs of Beirut and areas under the party's influence. Military experts, including Major General Fayez al-Duwairi, emphasize that these attacks are not indicative of a broader war but are focused on crippling Hezbollah's operational capabilities. The attacks have predominantly concentrated on the al-Qaim neighborhood, a significant security area for Hezbollah where many previous assassinations have occurred. This pattern of targeting reveals vulnerabilities within Hezbollah's ranks, suggesting a serious security gap.
Al-Duwairi highlighted a series of assassination attempts against key Hezbollah figures, including a recent attempt on Commander Muhammad Surur. He warns that continued Israeli operations could isolate Hezbollah's Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah from his military base, further undermining the party's leadership.
Targeting Hezbollah's Supply Lines: The Strategic Depth of Conflict
Brigadier General Elias Hanna adds that Israel's targeting extends beyond the southern suburbs to vital regions such as the Bekaa Valley and Hermel, which are crucial for Hezbollah's military logistics. The Bekaa region serves as a critical supply corridor for weapons from Syria, and attacks near the Litani River aim to disrupt Hezbollah's logistical routes. Both experts agree that Hezbollah is striving to maintain a calculated response, focusing on Israeli military sites while avoiding civilian targets to prevent escalation into a full-scale ground war.
Hezbollah's strategic responses have included targeting military installations like the naval base in Haifa and other military sites in northern Israel. The ongoing mutual targeting reflects a tactical approach from both sides, aiming to exhaust each other's resources without escalating into a broader conflict. Al-Duwairi speculates that Israel may attempt to establish a buffer zone in southern Lebanon, but the historical context of guerrilla warfare and the lessons from previous Israeli occupations may deter such an aggressive move. As both sides navigate this complex conflict, the potential for a ground operation remains a significant concern, particularly given Hezbollah's fortified defenses and the historical memory of past confrontations.
