I am thinking the same thing. I am also thinking that the israeli response will be directed at all of lebanon, treating that country as a sponsor of terrorism.
This is my perception as well. The recent acclamations (likely given through clenched teeth) of Hizbullah is an affirmation that Iran and Syria STILL control Syria, via their Hizbullah proxy.
What I wonder is that whether all of this "cheering" of Hizbullah is merely fake applaud that will buy time for them to mass their forces of opposition against Hizbullah.
Certainly the Sunnis, Druze, and Christians in Lebanon would seem to have a common interest in opposing Shi'a hegemony. They certainly know that Lebanon's primary source of foreign currency (tourism) is going to fall off dramatically should Hizbullah continue to dominate Lebanon.
But Netanyahu, should he come to power again, will not tolerate another attack upon Israel, IMO.
And I also agree that those who are arming this illegal organization which has turned into a "state within a state" will not be free from harm.
I would hope that Carl is right, but I don't see it resembling the reality on the ground. I do not see any form of "detente" arising out of the current situation.
Btw, I see that Hizbullah is handing out $15,000 in compensation to victims who suffered damage from the Israeli bombardment and that the Lebanese government is not matching this. This is supposed to amount to some $150 Million.. Quite a significant amount that is likely to hurt Hizbullah's coffers extensively (and force Iran to provide them even more money).
Is this "punishment" upon Hizbullah, having to spend their treasure to rebuild the damage resulting from their actions, or merely further proof that Lebanon is just a political facade for Hizbullah rule?
One one think that the Lebanese government would have directed Hizbullah to pay reparations to the government, who would then pay the claims.
It might have the same financial result upon Hizbullah, but politically it sends a quite different message.
Hawk |
