An analysis of the events surrounding the beeper operation against Hezbollah highlights its significance as an important element in preventing the escalation of the conflict with Iran and the terrorist organization. Times of Israel editor David Horowitz said that Tuesday’s bombardment of thousands of Hezbollah beepers in Lebanon and Syria was an impressive achievement of Israeli intelligence, technological capabilities and organization. This development stands out against the backdrop of the tragic events of October 7, when Hamas carried out a massive incursion into Israel, accompanied by murder, kidnapping and violence.
The pager bombing operation, though not officially acknowledged by Israel, seemed to Horowitz to be the first step towards a major ground offensive. The aim of this operation was to weaken Hezbollah by disrupting its communications and logistics, thereby creating the conditions for further strengthening security on Israel’s northern borders. Another important aspect was the possible return of thousands of Israelis who fled their homes almost a year ago due to the threat.
Horowitz also notes that the pager explosions dealt not only a physical but also a psychological blow to Hezbollah. Suspicions arose within the organization that its devices could be used as “Trojan horses,” which led them to decide to detonate the pagers before a full-scale war began.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant previously stressed that Israel is under threat of attacks from several directions, including Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, Iran and regional countries such as Yemen and Iraq. This has been confirmed in recent days, as tensions have risen on the northern borders and Israel faces new challenges in Judea, Samaria and Gaza. Missile and drone attacks have also increased by Iranian-backed forces in Iraq and Yemen.
Horowitz also mentioned the strategic crossroads Israel finds itself at. One possible scenario includes achieving a ceasefire in Gaza and stabilization in the north, which could facilitate the creation of a regional alliance with Saudi Arabia to counter Iran. At the same time, there is a risk of an escalation of the conflict, in which Israel could be drawn into more active hostilities on several fronts.
Despite the success of the pager operation, Horowitz notes that Israel did not seize the moment to immediately invade Lebanese territory or launch airstrikes against key Hezbollah facilities. For the moment, the situation remains uncertain and future steps will depend on how the parties take advantage of the current situation.
Earlier, Kursor reported that terrorists had been dealt a heavy blow in Rafah.
The operation was made possible thanks to intelligence received from the Shin Bet and AMAN.
