Military briefing: can Israel’s land offensive “defeat” Hezbollah?

An article by Financial Times argues that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has intensified military actions against Hezbollah, initiating limited ground raids in southern Lebanon—Israel's first land offensive there in 18 years. The piece delves into the fact that while Netanyahu initially focused on repelling Hezbollah to allow displaced residents to return to northern Israel, he now expresses a goal of fully "defeating" the group.

The article notes that this shift raises concerns about how Israel can achieve such an ambitious objective without a deeper military commitment, especially given the devastating impact of airstrikes that have already displaced thousands and killed many.

According to the article, military analysts predict that the current offensive could be more challenging and prolonged than the 2006 war, in which Hezbollah and Israel fought to a standstill. The risks for Israeli troops are significant; recent clashes have already resulted in casualties among IDF soldiers. The situation could escalate into a broader regional conflict, especially as Iran retaliates against Israeli actions.

Currently, Israeli military objectives remain vague, and there are fears that any land incursion could lead to a protracted occupation. Hezbollah has fortified its defences since the last conflict, making it difficult for Israeli forces to achieve a decisive victory. The complex terrain and Hezbollah's established presence further complicate the situation, raising questions about whether Israel can effectively neutralize the group's military capabilities.

Israel has conducted extensive air and artillery strikes against Hezbollah's positions, which have led to significant civilian casualties and displacement. However, analysts emphasize that without a comprehensive strategy that includes political elements, military actions alone may not suffice to eliminate the threat posed by Hezbollah.

In summary, Israel faces a challenging military landscape in its offensive against Hezbollah, with concerns about potential escalation, the difficulties of ground combat, and the need for a well-rounded strategy that integrates military force with political objectives.