Is It Time for a Deal on the Lebanon Front?

An-Nahar, Lebanon, February 15

On Oct. 8, 2023, Hizbullah unilaterally declared war on Israel, citing support for the resistance in Gaza and a desire to ease pressure on the strip. After 131 days of intense fighting along the Lebanese-Israeli border, Israel suffered significant losses, with dozens of soldiers and civilians killed or wounded, military sites destroyed, and a weakening of its deterrence capacity. Hizbullah also faced casualties, with over 200 fighters and several civilians losing their lives, and widespread destruction of residential and commercial areas in border villages. Despite the prolonged conflict, Hizbullah’s goals for the war remain unmet. The battle in Gaza rages on, with ground operations advancing into key cities like Khan Yunis and Rafah, raising concerns about the aftermath of the battles. As Hamas’ grip on the strip weakens, questions arise about Gaza’s future governance, reconstruction prospects, and regional stability post-Hamas rule. Promises of eradicating Israel within minutes or liberating Jerusalem have proven hollow, exposing the limitations of Tehran-led rhetoric and Hizbullah’s influence in the region. The reality diverges sharply from Iran’s decades-long propaganda campaign, which exploited Arab populations with false promises of resistance. Internal dissent in Iran, particularly in urban centers, highlights growing disillusionment with the regime’s oppressive tactics and ideological manipulation. In Lebanon, the war underscores Hizbullah’s failure to achieve its stated objectives, as casualties mount, resources deplete, and the nation reels from economic strain and institutional decay. To overcome this crisis, Lebanon must separate itself from the Gaza conflict, pursue an immediate cease-fire, and recommit to UN Resolution 1701. A comprehensive approach involving border negotiations, military reconstruction, and expedited gas exploration initiatives is needed to stabilize the country and pave the way for peace and prosperity. Lebanon must swiftly exit the vortex of conflict and chart a path toward recovery and reconciliation. —Ali Hamada (translated by Asaf Zilberfarb)