Israel Conducts Special Operations in Southern Lebanon to Seek Fortified Weapons
Recent reports indicate that Israeli special forces have initiated small-scale raids in southern Lebanon aimed at gathering crucial intelligence. According to military expert Brigadier General Hassan Juni, these operations are primarily focused on locating weapons and fortified hideouts that have evaded destruction by the Israeli Air Force. Juni emphasized that these hideouts, likely nestled within the mountainous terrain, are designed to withstand conventional air strikes.
The operations may involve various tactical approaches, including ground infiltration, airdrops, or sea landings. This strategy aligns with Israel's broader military agenda, which encompasses three primary efforts: military, psychological, and security. Juni highlighted the psychological aspect, which is aimed at exerting pressure on Hezbollah fighters and the Lebanese populace, thereby undermining support for the group.
Implications of Israeli Military Strategy and Hezbollah's Response
As rumors circulate regarding a potential ground invasion, Juni interprets these leaks as part of a psychological warfare campaign intended to intimidate and coerce. He suggests that such threats may be designed to achieve strategic objectives without necessitating a costly ground operation.
Hezbollah's capability to counter any ground intervention is significantly bolstered by its fighters' local knowledge and commitment to their homeland. Juni noted that the party's previous confrontations with Israel have shattered the myth of its invincibility, particularly during the Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon and the 2006 war.
In light of recent escalations, including targeted strikes on Hezbollah leaders, Juni acknowledged that the scale of these attacks surpasses typical military expectations. However, he stressed the importance of flexibility and rapid response to evolving battlefield conditions, asserting that Hezbollah's experience in adaptive planning will be critical in facing these unprecedented challenges.
