From the Israeli government’s perspective, the wars against Hezbollah and Hamas are going well. Most of Gaza is under control and the northern third is slowly being cleared of Palestinians. There is plenty of talk of Jewish settlers moving in before long and it seems accepted that Gaza will be garrisoned by Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) for years to come.
As for Hezbollah, Israel has managed to successfully assassinate most of its leadership and substantially damage its extensive weapons stores. Meanwhile, Israel has warned Lebanese that any breaking of the current pause in fighting will be met with massive force directed not just against Hezbollah but also against Lebanese society more generally.
Beyond Gaza and Lebanon, Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are being expanded – while Palestinians’ rights across the territory are subject to ever closer control, with thousands arrested and hundreds killed. Any resistance is met with considerable force and harsh punishment.
