Hezbollah Tests Israel’s Patience
The Lebanese terror group Hezbollah recently set up a tent in Israeli territory, which constitutes an act of provocation. While the move is not a security risk that requires immediate action, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant addressed the action, saying, “These are provocations and a violation of sovereignty, so we will deal with it at a time of our choosing.”
By policy, Israel avoids sparking confrontations with Hezbollah, choosing to respond to events case by case. But National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi noted that Hezbollah’s recent actions, which also includes publishing footage of IDF officials without protective gear, demonstrated a “weakening in the policy of self-restraint.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, saying Nasrallah “knows that he and Lebanon shouldn’t test us.”
Hezbollah is playing with fire. It’s almost like a little brother pestering his big brother to get a reaction out of him. Israel is wise to avoid responding forcefully over individual, minor infractions while still developing a plan to deal with Hezbollah’s clear pattern of aggressions. Hezbollah can be dangerous, but Israel’s mighty defenses give it a great advantage over its enemy. And God, Israel’s ultimate defense, will never leave nor forsake His Chosen People.
