An Israeli army vehicle operates in Zawtar Sharqieh, as seen from Zawtar Gharbieh, southern Lebanon, Oct. 1, 2026. (Credit: Mohamed Azakir/Reuters)
Lebanon is approaching the end of the year facing four voids that could reinforce one another. From foreign policy and the security vacuum in the South to socioeconomic conditions and decision-making mechanisms, the authorities continue to manage crises on an ad hoc basis, with neither a genuine will to reform nor preparations for mounting risks. All this is unfolding amid political divisions and regional upheaval.The first void stems from electoral uncertainty in Israel and the United States. Regardless of the outcome of the Knesset elections, forming an Israeli government could prove difficult. A transitional government or fragile coalition would complicate negotiations and an Israeli withdrawal. Benjamin Netanyahu might be tempted to escalate tensions abroad to preserve his influence after a defeat or facilitate coalition-building...
Lebanon is approaching the end of the year facing four voids that could reinforce one another. From foreign policy and the security vacuum in the South to socioeconomic conditions and decision-making mechanisms, the authorities continue to manage crises on an ad hoc basis, with neither a genuine will to reform nor preparations for mounting risks. All this is unfolding amid political divisions and regional upheaval.The first void stems from electoral uncertainty in Israel and the United States. Regardless of the outcome of the Knesset elections, forming an Israeli government could prove difficult. A transitional government or fragile coalition would complicate negotiations and an Israeli withdrawal. Benjamin Netanyahu might be tempted to escalate tensions abroad to preserve his influence after a defeat or facilitate coalition-building...
