Israeli military weighs bombing Lebanese parliament

Published November 24th, 2024 - 04:24 GMT
Lebanese parliament building
Lebanese policemen secure the parliament building in Beirut as deputies arrive to attend a session to elect a new president, 23 November 2007. (Photo by RAMZI HAIDAR / AFP)

ALBAWABA - According to a report by Maariv's military journalist Avi Ashkenazi, Israel may make the Lebanese Parliament building in Beirut one of its military targets in the ongoing war with Hezbollah. The action, which has been called a possible strategic choice, is intended to declare "victory" in the north and let northern Israel's displaced citizens to return home.

Ashkenazi emphasizes that in order to concentrate on military operations in Gaza, Israel is giving stabilization in the north first priority. He clarifies that finding a settlement in Lebanon will put more pressure on Hamas and isolate the organization on a regional level.

"The situation in the north is not just a Lebanese or American problem; it is a tactical necessity for Israel that requires military leaders to take decisive action," he said.

Hezbollah has intensified its attacks amid the elevated tensions, directing rockets and drones at areas in central Israel, such as Kiryat Shmona and Safed. According to Ashkenazi, these Sunday morning attacks on several Israeli cities show off Hezbollah's operational prowess, which is supported by Iran in an effort to maintain its regional hegemony.

Ashkenazi highlights that Iran's long-term policy of patience and adaptation remains a serious issue, even in light of the losses inflicted on Hezbollah by Israeli forces. The assessment indicates that additional measures are required to dismantle Iran's regional proxies, even if Israel has been effective in destroying Hezbollah's military infrastructure.

Ashkenazi lists possible military alternatives for Israel, such as targeted ground operations to secure strategic locations and more airstrikes on Hezbollah strongholds in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The possible bombing of the Lebanese Parliament building is one option that is especially contentious and is covered in the study.

Ashkenazi contends that the parliament might serve as a haven for Hezbollah members and is an integral part of the organization's political structure. He contends that attacking it may deal Hezbollah a serious setback to its military and political power.

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