A fragile ceasefire and open scenarios: Israel reassesses its Lebanon strategy

Report by Amal Shehadeh, English adaptation by Mariella Succar

In parallel with escalating threats, Israel has received U.S. approval to expand its attacks in Lebanon, as tensions rise and the ceasefire becomes more fragile than ever.

While security discussions continue over a plan aimed at strengthening the Lebanese Army’s deployment inside Lebanon, calls have emerged to reconsider the need to continue Washington-mediated negotiations between Lebanon and Israel.

At the same time, an Israeli report revealed that Hezbollah possesses thousands of missiles and drones capable of threatening both soldiers on the battlefield and residents in northern Israel, raising questions over whether a broader military operation could eliminate that threat.

Israel is also examining how to move beyond what it describes as a “waiting position” regarding Iran, while considering plans for a major operation targeting Hezbollah’s key strongholds.

In parallel, Israeli security agencies have reportedly discussed resuming assassinations across Lebanon without geographic restrictions.

Meanwhile, Israel maintains that there can be no compromise over its continued presence in what it calls the “security belt” in Lebanon, particularly given what it describes as a lack of both security and political trust in the Washington negotiations.