Lebanon ceasefire a strategic trap for 'Israel': Israeli media
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Israeli media is discussing the Lebanon and Gaza ceasefire agreements, highlighting the return of residents to Southern Lebanon and Northern Gaza, with many viewing "Israel" as in a trap.
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Lebanese soldiers standing on a vehicle and Lebanese citizens preparing to return to their homes destroyed by the Israeli aggression are seen from the window of a UN peacekeeper armored vehicle, in Mays al-Jabal village, southern Lebanon, on January 27, 2025. (AP)
Israeli media viewed the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon as quickly evolving into a "strategic trap" from which it is hard to escape, saying this was particularly true given the need to safely return settlers of northern settlements to their homes, with current agreements seen as "blackmailing" "Israel".
A former Israeli army officer, Yonatan Adiri, told Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth that “Despite the tremendous military achievements in the 15 months of fighting on several fronts, Israel finds itself in the current two deals in Lebanon and Gaza in an inferior position stemming from the lack of a real ability to stand and leave the negotiations."
Adiri stated that the Lebanese army "failed to implement" the agreement, leaving "Israel" with no real leverage except for maintaining its presence on Lebanese territory. He noted that this presence, lacking the necessary forces and preparation, exposes "Israel" to potential targeting by Hezbollah and both external and internal pressures.
He expressed his belief that the agreement, initially accepted as a tactical necessity, swiftly turned into a "strategic trap that's hard to escape," particularly due to the need to safely return settlers of the north to their homes.
Regarding the Gaza Strip, Adiri stated that "Israel is bound by the constraints of the plan," and that "Hamas is growing stronger, with every pulse (release of detainees), expanding its control over the residents of Gaza."
He continued, "Every week, Israel loses important leverage: the release of high-profile prisoners, Gazan civilians gradually returning to the northern Gaza Strip, and the crossings opening for unlimited aid from Egypt. In return, Hamas' image is strengthened both internally and in the Arab world."
Adiri believed that "Israel is unable to withdraw from implementing the two plans in both sectors, and its enemies realize this and are blackmailing it accordingly, and it is in the trap."
The Israeli former officer questioned how this equation could be altered, suggesting that it might be achieved through "an offensive operation initiated in Iran."
He explained that "the initiative is a foundational step in Gaza led by the United States," referencing US President Donald Trump's announcement about the potential to open Gaza's doors to immigration, with leading countries in the region participating in shaping a new reality.
He explained that "such a move would allow Israel, even if it lost short-term leverage, to transform Gaza into a regional issue and weaken Hamas’ control." He added, "Furthermore, it would send a clear message to Turkey and Iran that their strategy of ‘exporting the revolution’ is facing an insurmountable obstacle."
A comprehensive initiative for normalization with Saudi Arabia, whether through a move in Gaza or alongside it, would result in a strategic shift and diminish Hamas' ideological influence.
If only Israelis had the motivation of Lebanese: Israeli official
On Monday, a senior Israeli officer acknowledged the lack of motivation among settlers to return to northern occupied Palestine following the conclusion of the war and the expiration of the 60-day deadline for Israeli forces to withdraw from southern Lebanon.
In an interview with the Israeli journalist Rubi Hammerschlag with broadcaster KAN 11, he cited what he described as a senior officer commented, "If only we could see the same motivation among the residents of northern Israel as we do among the residents of southern Lebanon to return to their homes and destroyed villages."
The statement came amid ongoing tensions as thousands of displaced Lebanese residents returned to their border villages, despite Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement. According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, Israeli forces opened fire on civilians in the forward villages, resulting in two deaths and 17 injuries, including a child and a medic.
Azoulay's remarks reflect growing frustration among Israeli officials who view the ceasefire as a capitulation to Hezbollah, allowing the Resistance to rebuild its strength. Many believe the deal does little to prevent future conflicts, as Hezbollah regains its foothold in the region.
