Despite any dreams Israel has had of what Israel’s Prime Minister once referred to as “total” or “complete” victory, Israel will likely continue to face challenges from its foes. It may be an unattainable goal due to the complex challenges Israel faces. Hamas was allowed to put down roots in Gaza over the last decades. Israel’s current leadership has opposed having the Palestinian Authority control Gaza.
This has resulted in the Palestinian areas being divided and cementing Hamas' rule. There is no alternative that has been put forward to Hamas' rule. During the two years of war against Hamas, the policy was to evacuate civilians from many areas of Gaza and concentrate them in areas run by Hamas, essentially keeping Hamas in power.
...In Lebanon, a similar problem exists. Hezbollah was dealt major setbacks in the conflict last year. This was especially true from September to November 2024, when the IDF launched increased operations against the group, eliminating key commanders and weapons stockpiles. However, Hezbollah is not completely de-fanged. As with Hamas, history shows that both groups have a habit of coming back.
...Another emerging challenge is arms smuggling across borders from Egypt and other countries. Netanyahu led a large number of officials to the Syrian border this week. He said that holding on to the buffer zone, which Israel seized on December 8, 2024, is very important. This has set up Israel for a collision course of tensions with Damascus. (Ed note: Good analysis. This thing in the Middle East is not resolved by a long shot.) (Read More)
