From Tactical Wins to Strategic Peril: Netanyahu’s Escalation with the Axis of Resistance

By – Elijah J. Magnier

Despite the tactical victories accumulated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in recent days, including the assassination of a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut, the head of Hamas’s political bureau, Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran, an Iranian commander in Syria, as well as the bombing of the port of Hodeidah in Yemen, he has not achieved any significant success in the prisoners’ negotiations or in controlling the 364 square kilometres of Gaza’s Strip. He has also failed to impose a new deterrence equation on the Axis of Resistance, which has begun serious preparations for war.

By expanding the battle with the “Axis of Resistance,” Netanyahu has shifted from an offensive to a defensive position, inevitably assuming full responsibility for the forthcoming response against Israeli targets. This will diffuse the drumbeat of war across multiple countries and capitals within the Axis of Resistance rather than allowing Israel to focus on one exclusively, as many capitals are seeking revenge.

In his latest speech, Netanyahu mentioned his willingness to consider a global deal for a ceasefire for the first time. However, his repetitive sabotage of negotiations and his narcissistic approach to advice from the security forces and non-radical cabinet members undermine his credibility. He is likely attempting to protect his tactical victories to avoid the forthcoming storm and present himself as a strong leader.

Regardless of Netanyahu’s wishful thinking, the Axis of Resistance is preparing for war, taking measures as if conflict could break out tomorrow. Lebanon, in particular, is readying itself for war as if it is imminent. However, it is not Hezbollah’s strategy to retaliate immediately, especially when other members of the same Axis are involved, preferring instead to exhaust the enemy’s resources and nerves. The Israeli attack on the suburb of Beirut cannot and will not be tolerated without Hezbollah’s most robust and daring military response against Israel since 1948.