A cloud of smoke rises over Chiyah, in the southern suburbs of Beirut, following an Israeli airstrike on Nov. 14, 2024. (Credit: Matthieu Karam/L’Orient Today)
In recent days, both Israel and Hezbollah have opted for military escalation, seemingly convinced that negotiations to end the war are not confined to diplomatic efforts.The balance of power on the ground will also play a role. At least, this is what Hezbollah is betting on. “The party believes it can improve its position and prevent Israel from achieving the objectives it seeks to impose politically and diplomatically,” said a source close to the group.For its part, after revealing the terms of its agreement with the U.S. and claiming that Lebanon had rejected them, Israel has decided to expand its ground offensive by moving into the second phase. This involves deeper incursions along various axes, coupled with intensified strikes on cities, particularly Beirut’s southern suburbs.In response, Hezbollah has escalated its operations,...
In recent days, both Israel and Hezbollah have opted for military escalation, seemingly convinced that negotiations to end the war are not confined to diplomatic efforts.The balance of power on the ground will also play a role. At least, this is what Hezbollah is betting on. “The party believes it can improve its position and prevent Israel from achieving the objectives it seeks to impose politically and diplomatically,” said a source close to the group.For its part, after revealing the terms of its agreement with the U.S. and claiming that Lebanon had rejected them, Israel has decided to expand its ground offensive by moving into the second phase. This involves deeper incursions along various axes, coupled with intensified strikes on cities, particularly Beirut’s southern suburbs.In response, Hezbollah has escalated its...