Barak Warns Against Open-Ended Israeli Deployment in Lebanon

Former prime minister and IDF chief Ehud Barak warned that an open-ended Israeli deployment in southern Lebanon could recreate the strategic trap Israel faced before its 2000 withdrawal. Barak said a security zone is unlikely to deliver lasting safety and argued that a political arrangement is ultimately needed. Israel maintains that its current positions are necessary to block Hezbollah threats to northern communities; Defense Minister Israel Katz has described remaining in Lebanon as Israel's right and duty. Polling cited in the new interview shows a majority of Israelis currently supports an extended military presence, while Hezbollah remains armed despite repeated Israeli blows.