Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is operating under a clear paradigm of power: that the demonstration of military strength is the most effective way to beget diplomacy. On Sunday, he made this case explicitly, arguing that Israel’s “victories” against Hezbollah are the direct cause of new peace talks with Syria and a new opening with Lebanon.
This paradigm is being tested and seemingly validated with Syria. The combination of the Assad regime’s ouster and Israel’s demonstrated military resolve has brought the new Syrian government to the negotiating table. A Syrian official has confirmed that these talks are serious, with a goal of a final security pact by year’s end.
In Lebanon, the power paradigm is being used to alter the internal dynamics. By continually weakening Hezbollah, Israel is shifting the balance of power in favor of the Lebanese state. This has empowered Beirut, with U.S. backing, to make the strong move of beginning the disarmament process.
“The possibility of peace… was not even imagined before our recent operations and actions,” Netanyahu stated, articulating the core belief of his power-based paradigm. He confirmed this approach has already produced “some progress” with Syria.
The results of this philosophy are tangible. The negotiation of a demilitarized zone with Syria is a direct outcome of this new power dynamic. Lebanon’s plan to disarm Hezbollah is another. For Netanyahu, the paradigm is clear: strength is the true parent of peace.
