Why Hezbollah Aims at Israeli Settlements Rather Than Guarding Their Borders
Hezbollah's strategic conduct towards Israeli soldiers across the northern borders with Syria and Lebanon has often been a subject of speculation. Considering the ongoing conflict and the persistent rocket attacks, one might wonder why Hezbollah does not engage in direct combat against Israeli soldiers. In this article, we will explore potential answers, discussing the reasons behind their actions and the strategic purposes they serve.
The Main Tactical Considerations
Showing Allegiance to Iran
Hezbollah's primary goal is not to physically defend the northern borders but to demonstrate their unwavering allegiance to their supporter, Iran. By targeting Israeli military and civilian targets, they show their value and loyalty to their backers. This act of defiance helps maintain the support and resources they receive from Iran, crucial for their continued operations.
Strategic Deterrence and Escalation
Psychological Warfare
More than 8,000 rockets have been fired by Hezbollah over the past 11 months. This massive and relentless barrage serves as a form of psychological warfare. It creates a constant state of fear and tension, putting immense pressure on Israeli forces to anticipate and respond to potential threats.
Concentrating Hostilities
Military Resources and Focus
By redirecting their forces to target Israeli settlements and military installations, Hezbollah diverts critical military resources away from border patrols and surveillance. This concentration of hostilities allows them to focus on offensive operations rather than defensive ones. As a result, the northern borders are left more vulnerable and less guarded.
Protecting Infrastructure and Civilians
During prolonged conflicts, protecting critical infrastructure and civilian populations becomes a priority. By engaging in defensive measures around settlements, Hezbollah can ensure the safety and welfare of the civilians in these areas. This is particularly crucial in regions with high concentrations of civilians whose lives can be dramatically affected by border skirmishes.
International Involvement and Diplomacy
Global Attention and Diplomatic Leverage
The sustained rocket attacks attract significant international attention. This global spotlight can be leveraged diplomatically, putting international pressure on both Israel and the United States. By maintaining a high level of activity, Hezbollah can create favorable conditions for negotiations and promote their agenda on the global stage.
Conclusion
To sum up, Hezbollah's actions are not random but are deeply strategic. Their primary objective is to show their support to Iran, achieve psychological deterrence, and protect their operations by diverting military attention away from border patrols. Consequently, the northern borders with Syria and Lebanon remain under threat, making this a complex and sensitive issue requiring a multifaceted approach to resolve.