Navigate Liminality with Preparedness

Current sentiment in Israel reflects a paradoxical mix of anxiety and normalcy, as daily life continues with bustling malls and heavy traffic despite underlying tensions. This transitional state heightens awareness of potential escalations in conflict, particularly with Iran and Hezbollah, who have persistently indicated an ongoing, low-intensity war. This continuous threat necessitates a strategic shift in Israeli response, where escalation becomes a vital tool to impose costs on opponents rather than merely enduring losses. The perception of a permanent conflict alters the strategic landscape, urging Israel to proactively define the terms of engagement to avoid a scenario where defeat is inevitable.