Military Strategy Faces Limits on Ground
The Israel Defense Forces has acknowledged that it cannot fully disarm Hezbollah without occupying all of Lebanon, underscoring the limits of its current military campaign. Officials stated that only the Lebanese government has the authority to disarm the group, although Israel remains committed to weakening its capabilities over time.
Moreover, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir reiterated that disarming Hezbollah remains a long-term objective. He emphasised that ongoing operations aim to degrade the group’s infrastructure and reduce its operational strength. Consequently, the military expects prolonged fighting as it expands both defensive and offensive actions along the border.
Security Zone Plan and Ongoing Conflict
Meanwhile, the IDF plans to propose a “security zone” extending two to three kilometres into southern Lebanon. Under the proposal, civilians would be evacuated to minimise contact with troops, while Hezbollah fighters would be prevented from returning to border villages. However, officials have not clarified whether homes in the area would be demolished or later restored.
In addition, Israeli forces have advanced deeper into southern Lebanon, reaching areas near the Litani River and securing multiple villages. Defence Minister Israel Katz has called for intensified operations, although the military maintains that it targets Hezbollah infrastructure rather than civilian areas.
Furthermore, the IDF estimates that Hezbollah still possesses thousands of rockets despite ongoing strikes. As a result, the conflict shows no immediate signs of de-escalation.
As tensions persist, officials stress that operations in Lebanon will continue independently of broader regional developments, highlighting the risk of a prolonged and complex confrontation.
