Introducing the Inaugural Issue of Israel's Struggle with Hezbollah
This newsletter highlights information and issues impacting Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hezbollah that have come to light since I finished the final draft of Israel’s Struggle with Hezbollah—A War Without End (See the post at the end of this newsletter for a description of the book which will be available for purchase on Amazon on March 13, 2023). This newsletter will appear in your inbox bi-weekly during the second and fourth week of each month.
The lead article will usually provide an overview of recent events involving Hezbollah and Israel’s northern borders. Following that, you will find links to several new curated articles, podcasts, or videos that I think most valuable for you to review. The newsletter will end with an update concerning articles and books I have written or am working on, and whatever else I think might interest you regarding northern Israel.
If you think it worthwhile, please forward it to whomever you wish.
It is Time for a New Hezbollah Policy—March 7, 2023—Written by Hanin Ghaddar, a native of Lebanon, and also an expert that focuses on Shia politics throughout the Levant. The author sees a strategic opportunity for the United States to provide financial assistance, in conjunction with more sanctions and accountability, to divide Iran and Hezbollah from Shiites in Lebanon.
Shifts in Lebanon’s Politics Could Lead to Change or Crisis - Analysis—Written by Seth J. Frantzman for the Jerusalem Post—March 5, 2023—This article provides an excellent summary of the present state of Lebanon’s struggle to select its President.
Key Hezbollah Financier, ‘global terrorist’ Arrested in Bucharest—Times of Israel—February 25, 2023—An alleged key financier of Hezbollah was arrested in Bucharest, Romania. In 2018 the United States offered a $10 million dollar reward for information about his whereabouts. Over the years, he has funneled millions to Hezbollah.
On Monday, March 13, 2023, Israel’s Struggle with Hezbollah—A War Without End will be available on Amazon. This compelling narrative explores Hezbollah’s origins, its cancerous growth, Israel’s response, and its present readiness to meet Hezbollah’s challenge.
Dr. Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President for Research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said about the book:
A fierce battle looms between the Lebanese terrorist group Hezbollah and the state of Israel. While past wars have been grueling, the next one promises to be far more painful – for both sides. Lurking behind all of this is the Islamic Republic of Iran, the world’s foremost state sponsor of terrorism, which has worked overtime for the last several decades to hasten the demise of the Jewish state. Drawing upon countless hours of interviews with Israeli officials and top analysts, author Clifford Sobin’s book draws out the contours of this looming battle in great detail.
Divided into four parts, the book opens with the creation of Lebanon, its troubles with Palestinian terrorists, and the rise of Hezbollah. Part Two, traces Hezbollah’s evolution and failed attempts by the United Nations to limit its ability to confront Israel. The third section covers Israel’s present readiness to fight Hezbollah and the fourth contains specific recommendations for what Israel, and we, can do to ensure that Hezbollah fails. By the book’s end, you will appreciate the danger Hezbollah poses and the necessity to deal with the threat.
Important Link—Alma Research and Education Center: Understanding the Security Challenges on Israel’s Northern Border