Former Israeli PM Barak warns against prolonged Lebanon occupation as new military operation unfolds
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, who withdrew Israeli troops from Lebanon in 2000 after an 18-year occupation, has warned against repeating that mistake as Israeli forces are again engaged in southern Lebanon fighting Hezbollah. Barak argues that while military operations may be necessary to stop attacks on Israeli civilians, a long-term occupation would be impractical and counterproductive without political coordination. His comments reflect ongoing tensions in the region, with Iran, Hezbollah, and the U.S. all involved in the escalating conflict.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, who ended Israel's 18-year occupation of Lebanon in 2000, has cautioned against repeating that experience as Israeli forces conduct their most expansive military operation in southern Lebanon since the 2000 withdrawal. In an NPR interview, the 84-year-old Barak stated that the original occupation should have ended 15 years earlier, calling it "a stretched-out tragedy." While acknowledging Israel's legitimate need to stop Hezbollah attacks on northern Israeli civilians, Barak argues that completely defeating Hezbollah would require conquering all of Lebanon, which he deems "totally impractical." He advocates instead for limited military operations tied to a political process involving Lebanon's government and international coordination. The current operation has already cost Israel nearly 30 soldiers and involves forces deployed approximately 15 miles into Lebanese territory, with no clear timeline for withdrawal. The situation is further complicated by Iran's demand for ceasefires in both Lebanon and Iran before engaging in negotiations with the U.S.
What different sources said
- NPR NewsLeft
Israeli leader who pulled out of Lebanon warns against getting stuck again
Related
Harry Kane Names France, Argentina, Brazil, Spain as England's Main Threats at 2026 World Cup
England captain Harry Kane identified France, Argentina, Brazil, and Spain as the biggest threats facing the Three Lions at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins June 11. Kane emphasized that success requires preparation to face multiple elite teams throughout the tournament, not just in a single match. Kane's assessment reflects England's position among tournament favorites alongside these nations, as the team seeks its first World Cup title since 1966.
Packers' Christian Watson Sets Ambitious Goals After $110 Million Contract Extension
Wide receiver Christian Watson signed a four-year, $110 million contract extension with the Green Bay Packers and outlined personal goals of 1,100+ receiving yards and double-digit touchdowns for the 2026 season. Watson has struggled with injuries throughout his career, appearing in just 48 games over four seasons and never exceeding 620 yards or seven touchdowns in a single year. The goals represent a significant step up from his recent performance but reflect the Packers' confidence in his potential.
Drew Bledsoe Warns Drake Maye to Manage Expectations After Patriots' Super Bowl Run
Former Patriots quarterback Drew Bledsoe cautioned Drake Maye about the intense pressure that follows a successful season, advising him to temper expectations after the Patriots nearly won the MVP and Super Bowl last year. Bledsoe, who was in a similar position at age 24 with New England before losing his starting job to Tom Brady, warned that high expectations can lead to unfair criticism. The advice comes as Maye heads into his third season facing a more challenging schedule than the Patriots' beneficial one from last year.