Israel and Hezbollah latest: Netanyahu's deadly gamble
Sep 25, 2024
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Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, discusses the intensifying conflict with Hezbollah, detailing Israel's military strategies and recent strikes that have shaken Lebanon. He addresses the psychological impact of ongoing skirmishes and critiques the response from international allies. The conversation also touches on Iran’s strategic distance from regional proxies and the dire humanitarian situation in Lebanon, already struggling with economic collapse and a history of conflict.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated significantly, raising fears of a broader regional war amidst severe humanitarian crises.
Hezbollah is grappling with internal turmoil and leadership challenges that threaten its operational effectiveness, impacting its future strategies in the conflict.
Deep dives
Escalation of Conflict in Lebanon
The recent escalation in Lebanon reflects a complex history of ongoing violence and instability. After Israel's invasion in response to Hezbollah attacks, tensions have surged, resulting in military operations that have caused significant casualties and forced many civilians from their homes. Israel has intensified its airstrikes targeting Hezbollah weapons caches, while the risk of a ground invasion looms over the fragile nation. This cycle of aggression raises concerns about the potential for a broader Middle Eastern conflict, compounding the suffering of those caught in the crossfire.
Hezbollah's Struggles and Morale
Hezbollah is facing severe internal challenges following recent Israeli military actions that have compromised its leadership and capabilities. The group has experienced significant losses, including injuries to its rank-and-file members and the deaths of high-ranking commanders, which have undermined its once formidable image. Communication breakdowns and heightened internal security concerns have left Hezbollah's operatives feeling vulnerable and uncertain about their future strategies. As their ability to coordinate effectively is diminished, the group's morale appears to be waning, raising questions about its effectiveness in ongoing conflicts.
Political Calculations and International Responses
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confronts pressures to demonstrate progress amid ongoing hostilities, particularly in Northern Israel. Despite setbacks in the war against Hamas in Gaza, he continues to pursue military actions in Lebanon to bolster his political standing, even as calls for a ceasefire grow louder. However, the international community, including the United States, has been largely ineffective in leveraging influence to halt escalating violence, which restricts pathways to peace. The situation remains precarious as political interests overshadow the urgent humanitarian needs of those affected by the conflict.
Lebanon faces intensifying conflict after the deadly escalation in Israel’s rivalry with paramilitary group Hezbollah.
An increasing series of skirmishes between Hezbollah and Israel has occurred since tensions in the region exploded with Hamas’ attack on Israel in October 2023 and Israel’s subsequent bombing campaign in Gaza.
Now Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed Hezbollah has been ‘hit with a string of strikes it didn’t imagine’ - after a Mossad plot to rig Hezbollah pagers with explosives brought chaos to Lebanon. Israel has since stepped up aerial bombardment of Hezbollah targets in the country, with hundreds reported dead.
What next for Lebanon, already scarred by decades of conflict? How will Hezbollah and its patron Iran respond? And can the US and allies rein in Netanyahu and find a route to a ceasefire?
Gavin Esler discusses the latest from the region with Gregg Carlstom, Middle East correspondent at The Economist.
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Written and presented by Gavin Esler. Produced by Robin Leeburn. Assistant producer Eliza Davis Beard. Original theme music by Paul Hartnoll – https://www.orbitalofficial.com. Executive Producer Martin Bojtos. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. This Is Not A Drill is a Podmasters production.