Israeli Officers Propose Unilateral Truce with Swift Response to Hezbollah Violation

Senior Israeli military officials have expressed the need for a strategic shift in their approach towards Hezbollah, as reported by the English-language Israeli news outlet Ynetnews. They propose that Israel should declare a 48-hour ceasefire but warn of a significant and disproportionate retaliation if any missile or rocket strikes Israeli soil, especially civilian areas. This response would target south Lebanon, including the homes of Hezbollah operatives in Shi’ite villages, which have largely been untouched so far.

The officers argue for a new policy where calm would be reciprocated with calm, but any aggression would be met with a strong, disproportionate response. They believe that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been restricted by political decisions, creating a perilous situation.

According to Ynetnews, the Israeli officials also recognize that Hezbollah, backed by Iran, stands to lose significantly from an escalation in hostilities. They suggest that now is the time for decisive action, in coordination with the United States. This would involve offering Hezbollah the opportunity for peace along the border through a unilateral stop in hostilities while also justifying broader military actions to restore security to northern Israel.

One Israeli officer questioned the delay in taking action against Hezbollah’s Radwan force, suggesting that Israel should be proactive rather than reactive. He emphasized the need to change the current dynamic, where Hezbollah, despite initiating hostilities, seems less threatened by Israeli forces.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. In Lebanon, around 200 people have died in the past three months, including approximately 145 Hezbollah fighters and over 20 civilians, with three journalists among them. In northern Israel, nine soldiers and six civilians have lost their lives, as per Israeli reports.

The clashes have also forced tens of thousands of people from their homes on both sides of the border. Israeli authorities have stated their commitment to ensuring the return of their residents to their homes, even if it necessitates a military operation.