As the Israel-Hamas conflict enters its 121st day, it has officially become Israel’s lengthiest ongoing war since the War of Independence in 1948. While it’s unlikely to surpass the 20-month duration of the War of Independence, it has already exceeded the First Lebanon War (1982; 116 days) and significantly surpassed the Second Lebanon War (2006; 34 days), the Yom Kippur War (1973; 19 days), and the Six-Day War (1967; six days).
In historical context, the prolonged nature of this conflict underscores the complexities and challenges faced by Israel in dealing with the Gaza Strip. Unlike previous shorter conflicts, the current war lacks a clear endpoint, with Israel expressing the view that even a truce and the release of captives would only be a temporary pause. The insistence on the removal of Hamas from power further complicates the prospects for a swift resolution, making this a unique and protracted chapter in Israel’s military history since its inception in 1948.
In addition to the war in the south, Israel continues to its threats of a full-blown war with Hezbollah and Iran.
Israel Defense Forces spokesman Daniel Hagari addressed Hezbollah over the weekend, saying that Israel will be “ready to attack immediately” if provoked, but said they do not wish for outright war.
“We do not choose war as our first priority, but we are certainly prepared,” Hagari said.”We will continue to act wherever Hezbollah is present, we will continue to act wherever it is required in the Middle East. What is true for Lebanon is true for Syria, and is true for other more distant places.”
Besuros Tovos.
