Israel intensifies military strikes on Hezbollah and Hamas as Trump’s foreign policy awaits

In the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are ramping up their operations against Hezbollah, targeting militant infrastructure in Lebanon. This latest offensive comes on the heels of significant military successes, including the removal of a key Hezbollah leader, Mohammed Afif, during a strike in Beirut.

The IDF’s systematic approach involves waves of attacks on various Hezbollah strongholds throughout Lebanon, including densely populated urban areas. This strategic targeting of weapons manufacturing facilities concealed within civilian neighborhoods has resulted in warnings being issued prior to most strikes to mitigate civilian harm. However, the recent operation that led to Afif’s death occurred without such a prior warning, marking a distinct escalation in the military’s tactics.

As Israeli forces engage with militants not only in Lebanon but also in the Gaza Strip, soldiers face combat on multiple fronts. IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi emphasized the military’s commitment, declaring, “If this organization continues to fire, we will continue to fight – to implement plans, to go further, conduct deep strikes – and hit Hezbollah very hard.”

While the military maneuvering intensifies, the political landscape is also shifting, particularly with the election of President Trump. Many analysts are speculating on how his foreign policy decisions could alter Israel’s military strategy. Trump’s initial term was marked by a profound pro-Israel approach, including moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and supporting the Golan Heights’ inclusion under Israeli sovereignty.

Observers are noting that a possible second stint for Trump could present an opportunity to expand the Abraham Accords, fostering alliances between Israel and several Arab states. However, this will likely require navigating complex negotiations, especially as Arab nations may demand concessions regarding the Palestinian territories before full diplomatic recognition.

In the wake of the devastating events following the October 7 attacks by Gaza terrorists, Israel is increasingly skeptical about the feasibility of a peaceful two-state solution. Eytan Gilboa, a prominent academic, remarked, “What happened in Gaza really destroyed the chances for the establishment of a Palestinian state, as well as peace.” Such sentiments are echoed across various factions within Israeli society, as the intertwined nature of Jewish and Arab communities in the region complicates any division of territory.

Amid these developments, statements from Iranian officials indicate a heightened sense of urgency and aggression. Following recent Israeli airstrikes on Iranian soil, calls for retaliation have emerged, complicating the already fraught atmosphere in the region.

Future dialogue around U.S. foreign policy positions is gaining attention as potential appointees are discussed. Figures like Marco Rubio and Mike Huckabee, both known for their support of Israel, are viewed favorably by many U.S.-Israel relations supporters. Huckabee, who has expressed a strong stance against the practicality of a two-state solution, refers to Judea and Samaria as the “Promised Land,” underscoring the considerable influence these selections might have on U.S.-Israel relations.

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