Israeli threats to bomb the Al-Masnaa border crossing with Syria are increasing, as Brigadier General Hassan Jouni believes this is aimed at exerting economic pressure on Lebanon amidst stalled Israeli military advances.
In a military analysis, Jouni clarified that the threat to bomb the crossing does not hold direct military value, as the crossing is under the control of official security agencies in Lebanon and Syria, and is not related to Hezbollah. However, targeting it represents part of Israel's policy to strangle the Lebanese economy.
Details of the Incident
Jouni pointed out that the crossing is a vital economic artery for Lebanon, making its targeting a means of pressure on the Lebanese government. He also noted that the shift in Israeli rhetoric towards discussing the disarmament of Hezbollah resulted from field difficulties and losses incurred during ground operations in the south.
This shift means increased pressure on the Lebanese government by targeting vital facilities that affect society as a whole, which could lead to an explosion of the internal Lebanese arena. Jouni warned that inflaming divisions among the components of Lebanese society could weaken the popular support for the resistance, especially amid economic crises and displacement.
Context and Background
In the context of field developments, Hezbollah announced targeting an Israeli warship off the Lebanese coast with a cruise missile, despite Tel Aviv's denial. Jouni indicates that the party's possession of naval capabilities is not out of the question, especially given historical precedents during the 2006 war.
He also linked this development to the targeting of the coastal area of Janah in Beirut, suggesting it may be related to a potential launch site, which could indicate the introduction of a naval dimension into the ongoing confrontation.
Impact and Consequences
Jouni explained that the Israeli army relies on a rotation between aerial and ground efforts, where aerial bombardment intensifies when ground operations stall. The Israeli incursion has witnessed a noticeable slowdown in recent days, due to the losses suffered by the forces in areas south of the Litani, particularly around Aita al-Shaab and Bint Jbeil.
This slowdown reflects a reassessment of risks, prompting Israel to intensify airstrikes, particularly on the southern suburbs of Beirut, which represent a supportive environment for Hezbollah.
Regional Significance
Targeting the southern suburbs with such violence aims to send dual messages, as the escalation of airstrikes often reflects effective field performance by Hezbollah in the south. This situation highlights the unprecedented intertwining of military, political, and psychological dimensions in the battle.
In conclusion, Jouni indicates that the Israeli escalation could exacerbate internal crises in Lebanon, threatening the stability of civil peace in the country.