GOC Northern Command Major General Ori Gordin, has recently suggested in private meetings that the IDF be authorized to create a security buffer zone under Israeli control in southern Lebanon, sources privy to the discussions told Israel Hayom.
Gordin argued that current conditions are favorable for the IDF to swiftly implement such a move. He noted that many members of Radwan, Hezbollah's elite unit previously stationed near the border fence, have either been killed during the past 11 months of conflict or retreated northward.
Furthermore, the region has seen a significant departure of civilians from southern Lebanese villages. Estimates suggest that only about 20% of the pre-October 7 population remains in the area. This substantial decrease in civilian presence would allow the IDF to execute the proposed maneuver more efficiently and rapidly.
The primary objectives of this strategy are to neutralize the threat and push Hezbollah forces back, thereby safeguarding northern Israeli communities. Additionally, it aims to create leverage for negotiating a lasting settlement, as Hezbollah would likely be motivated to reach an agreement to prompt an IDF withdrawal.
It's important to note that such an operation would effectively launch a major, wide-ranging campaign against Hezbollah. There are uncertainties about controlling its duration and preventing it from escalating into a broader regional conflict. Nevertheless, there's a growing recognition among Israel's civilian leadership that, given the failure of US diplomatic efforts to broker a political settlement with Hezbollah, substantial military action may be the only recourse to enable northern residents to return to their homes.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated during recent strategic discussions that the IDF should prepare for an expanded northern campaign. The Diplomatic-Security Cabinet was scheduled to meet Monday to deliberate on next steps in the northern arena, including the possibility of officially designating the return of northern residents as a war objective. An IDF spokesperson stated in response: "We do not comment on discussions held in closed forums."
