Unraveling the Dream: Why Israeli Normalization with Lebanon Remains Elusive

In recent developments regarding the Israeli-Lebanese relations, terms like settlement, peace, and normalization are being utilized to reflect ongoing strategies aimed at advancing Israel’s expansionist goals. The situation arises amidst a backdrop of increasing tensions and the complexities of the regional geopolitical landscape. On Wednesday, Hebrew Channel 12 reported an “exceptional statement” from an Israeli political source, highlighting the ongoing discussions with Lebanon as part of a “broad and comprehensive plan.”

The source elaborated, saying, “The policy of the Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has already changed the Middle East, and we want to continue the momentum and reach normalization with Lebanon.” This statement hints at the imposition of Israeli conditions following its recent military actions, suggesting that while Lebanon has its demands concerning borders, Israel also intends to assert its own conditions, specifically regarding normalization.

Since its inception, the Israeli occupation has worked relentlessly to impose normalization with Lebanon through various means. However, the current military, security, and political realities have thwarted these efforts. The Israeli government’s belief that the resistance front has weakened, particularly after significant losses and the disruption of its supply lines through Syria, fuels its current strategies. The formation of a weakened Lebanese authority, perceived to be indifferent to national sovereignty and aligned with American interests, further complicates the situation.

The path to normalization appears heavily contingent on undermining the Lebanese resistance front. However, this objective remains unachievable. Israel’s recent aggressive actions in Lebanon, backed by the United States, have not led to any significant gains. Moreover, the resistance movement enjoys substantial popular support, which solidifies its position against any attempts at normalization.

• Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen has recently ruled out the possibility of normalization with Lebanon, stating that “it is too early to talk about it.”
• Cohen acknowledged that achieving normalization would be challenging without addressing Iranian influence in the region.
• The Israeli colonial entity aims to maintain its qualitative military and security superiority in West Asia.

Analysts agree that Israel stands to gain far more from any normalization agreement than it would concede. There is a lack of moral obligation felt by Tel Aviv, even towards its closest allies, as evidenced by its surveillance practices, which have included spying on the United States.

In a significant development, the US Department of Commerce recently placed the NSO Group, the Israeli firm behind the controversial Pegasus spyware, on its list of banned companies due to concerns over national security threats. This action reflects the complicated relationship between Washington and Tel Aviv as both parties navigate the intricate dynamics of the region.

Despite the serious intentions of Washington and Tel Aviv, numerous obstacles stand in the way of achieving normalization with Lebanon. Historical precedents illustrate the challenges involved. After Egypt’s withdrawal from the Axis of Resistance and the signing of the Camp David Accords in the 1980s, Tel Aviv miscalculated and believed it could impose normalization with Lebanon. However, the emergence of the resistance movement led to the nullification of the May 1983 normalization agreement in February 1984.

Netanyahu has consistently reiterated that “peace” with Lebanon cannot be established while resistance groups remain active. This stance emphasizes that the role of Hezbollah is crucial in thwarting any attempts at normalization.

In conclusion, while discussions of normalization between Israel and Lebanon continue to surface, the underlying realities reflect a complex interplay of military, political, and social dynamics that render such efforts highly contentious. The resistance front remains a formidable obstacle, underscoring the enduring tensions in the region and the challenges that lie ahead for both Israeli and Lebanese stakeholders.