Israeli Military Officials Debate Ground Operation in Lebanon
Israeli media outlets are increasingly discussing the potential for a limited ground operation deep inside Lebanon as tensions with Hezbollah escalate. Former security officials have expressed concerns over the implications of such an operation, with many advocating for a political settlement instead of military escalation. Noam Tibon, a former commander of the IDF Northern Corps, emphasized that Hezbollah is engaged in a war of attrition, aiming to prolong the conflict until it can achieve its objectives regarding Gaza. Tibon cautioned that Israel's past experiences, particularly during the Second Lebanon War, highlight the dangers of unnecessary ground operations that can complicate the situation further.
The Risks of Military Escalation
Former National Security Council official Mickey Aharonson echoed Tibon's sentiments, warning that a prolonged war of attrition would be detrimental to Israel. He noted the significant risks associated with a ground invasion, despite its potential necessity. Zohar Balti, a former Mossad chief, added that Hezbollah's capabilities, built over two decades, cannot be dismantled quickly, indicating that the conflict is likely to be long-term. Military analysts, including Yossi Yehoshua, believe that a targeted, limited ground operation may be the only viable option to dismantle Hezbollah's infrastructure and prevent future attacks on Israeli towns.
Calls for Caution and Political Solutions
As discussions around military action intensify, some officials, including MK Almog Cohen, have urged caution, warning against any agreements with Hezbollah, which they argue has failed to comply with UN Resolution 1701. Former Shin Bet official Amit Asa also cautioned against pursuing a political settlement at this juncture, advocating instead for a strategy that aims to weaken Hezbollah significantly. Conversely, military intelligence expert Yossi Melman suggested that a political solution might be preferable to avoid escalating military confrontation, given the risk of Hezbollah retaliating with missile strikes.
