Former Israeli national security adviser Yaakov Amidror has urged for a dramatic shift in Israel's approach to Hezbollah, even if it risks sparking a larger conflict.
In a candid interview with Channel 12 news, Amidror outlined a bold strategy to neutralize the threat posed by the Lebanon-based militant group:
"We must remove Hezbollah from south Lebanon, even at the risk of a 'big war' we don't want," Amidror stated. He emphasized the need to prevent any possibility of Hezbollah replicating an attack similar to the October 7 incident.
According to Amidror: UN Resolution 1701 and UNIFIL peacekeepers have proven ineffective in controlling Hezbollah. As a result, Israel has to strike Hezbollah harshly and decisively, even if it needs to bring in ground forces to clear southern Lebanon of Hezbollah's presence.
In addition, not only could the operation could potentially escalate into an all-out war involving major cities, but also Iran may choose to intervene.
Amidror criticized past Israeli policies, saying, "We let Hezbollah become a monster, and then were shocked by what we had allowed to happen."
He also expressed skepticism about recent claims of Hezbollah's weakening, calling reports of 50% destruction of their arsenal "overly optimistic." Even if true, he noted, Hezbollah would still possess tens of thousands of rockets and missiles.
Regarding hostage negotiations with Hamas, Amidror dismissed the idea that pressure on Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah could influence the situation. "Hamas makes the decisions on the hostages, and Hezbollah has no influence on that," he asserted.
Amidror concluded by stressing the need for Israel to continue targeting both Hezbollah and Hamas while prioritizing the rescue of hostages in Gaza, independent of operations in Lebanon.
As tensions in the region continue to escalate, Amidror's provocative statements highlight the complex strategic calculus facing Israeli leadership in fighting a war on seven fronts.
The Times of israel contributed to this article.