Israel must retaliate as Hezbollah intensifies assaults
Iran’s multi-front war on Israel intensified this week as Tehran’s main terrorist proxy launched missiles and drones at northern Israeli towns, resulting in the death of an Israeli soldier, injuries to others, and massive wildfires erupting.
Despite pressure from President Biden for Israel to concede to Iran, the situation in northern Israel is dire and the country faces existential peril.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared, “Whoever thinks that they can harm us and we will sit idly by is making a big mistake. We are prepared for a very strong action in the north.”
It is crucial for Israel to retaliate, and it is important for Americans to comprehend the reasons behind it.
Following Hamas’s attack on October 7, Iran activated Hezbollah to open a northern front against Israel. This led to the evacuation of 100,000 Israelis from communities along the border with Lebanon, fearing Hezbollah’s potential invasion.
Hezbollah poses a significant threat to all of Israel, not just those near the Lebanese border.
Over the years, Hezbollah has amassed a substantial arsenal, including various types of weaponry like missiles, rockets, drones, and other munitions that pose a serious danger to Israel.
Despite international resolutions mandating Hezbollah’s disarmament south of the Litani River, Iran has continually supplied the terrorist group with weapons, rendering the peacekeeping efforts ineffective.
Israeli leaders have contemplated preemptive strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, but Biden reportedly discouraged such actions, leading to a defensive approach against Hezbollah’s provocations.
As tensions escalate, Israel faces difficult decisions to counter Iran and Hezbollah’s threats effectively while avoiding a full-scale war with devastating consequences.
Iran’s continued aggression, coupled with Hezbollah’s escalation, poses a severe challenge for Israel’s security and stability.
With Iran inching closer to obtaining nuclear capabilities and supporting other proxies in the region, the situation is increasingly precarious.
Israel must strategize carefully and act decisively to protect its borders and citizens while preventing further escalation of conflict.
The international community, particularly the United States, should support Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorist threats to ensure peace and security in the region.
Richard Goldberg, a senior adviser at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, is a former National Security Council official and senior US Senate aide.
