Within a few days, the IDF has successfully eliminated several top leaders of both Hezbollah and Hamas. This operation serves as a reminder to Israel’s adversaries that no one is immune to the lethal combination of high-quality intelligence and military prowess, while also reassuring the citizens it is meant to safeguard.
Given the numerous threats of retaliation and revenge from Iran and its proxies, a widespread sense of panic has engulfed Israel, possibly transforming the entire nation into a vast conflict zone.
Northern Israel appears undeterred by this situation, given its ongoing conflict with Hezbollah since October 8. Nevertheless, Hezbollah is likely to escalate further following the recent loss of their second-in-command. This impending increase in hostilities prompts the question: how can this relentless cycle, which has already resulted in the deaths of numerous soldiers and civilians at the hands of the Shia militant group, be brought to an end?
Using force to end it
A recent survey conducted by Israel’s Channel 12 explored this question. Five hundred Israelis were queried on what actions Israel should take to resolve the conflict that has led to tens of thousands of Israelis being displaced and many homes demolished. Forty-five percent supported a full-scale war with Hezbollah, surpassing the second most popular choice, which was seeking a political resolution with the Shia proxy, chosen by 40 percent. Fifteen percent did not select either option.
The ongoing conflict with Hezbollah marks the third instance in a 40-year dispute that has caused significant frustration for residents of northern Israel. The most recent agreement with Hezbollah, facilitated by the UN Security Council in 2006, called for Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon in exchange for Hezbollah’s disarmament.
Bearing in mind this broken promise, and with Hezbollah rockets being launched daily at northern Israel, it is clear why Israelis might favor a comprehensive war to resolve the conflict with Hezbollah over ineffectual, nonbinding political agreements.
