An Israeli soldier stands atop a tank near his country’s border with Lebanon on October 16 [Lisi Niesner/Reuters]The long-simmering tensions between Israel and Hezbollah are inching closer to full-blown conflict. Recent reports suggest that Israel’s strategy has shifted, with the assassination of key Hezbollah leaders intended to disrupt the group’s leadership. While this bold move seems aimed at throwing Hezbollah off balance, it’s equally likely to provoke severe retaliation. Israel’s plan? It’s ambitious, but whether it can pull it off without being sucked into a prolonged, bloody conflict remains to be seen.
Hezbollah’s Home Advantage: Not to Be Underestimated
Google Earth Maps of Southern LebanonHezbollah’s stronghold in Lebanon’s mountainous terrain presents a major challenge for any Israeli ground assault. With over 100,000 fighters who know the land like the back of their hands, Hezbollah has a massive home-field advantage. And this isn’t just a ragtag group of fighters; their experience from regional conflicts, including the Syrian civil war, has made them a highly skilled force.
