Episode Details

Twenty-six years after Israel’s controversial withdrawal from southern Lebanon, it’s back — this time amid fears of repeating past mistakes. Then-Prime Minister Ehud Barak, who led the 2000 pullout, now warns that occupation could become an end in itself, offering no real security. The current operation, sparked by Hezbollah attacks in retaliation for Iran strikes, has Israel controlling over 600 square kilometers under a shaky framework with Lebanon — one Hezbollah refuses to join. Israeli officials say they’ll stay until Hezbollah disarms, citing the need to shield northern towns. Barak, who once saw the 2000 withdrawal as a proud moment, now argues security zones have never truly protected Israelis — and destroying Hezbollah would require conquering all of Lebanon, an impossible task. Yet, with Lebanon’s new president openly opposing Hezbollah and willing to negotiate, analysts see a rare diplomatic window: weaken Hezbollah without war, empower Lebanon’s own institutions, and maybe, just maybe, avoid the same costly cycle.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

View sources & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/be3e4487293e96fc