Israeli Minister: 'The defeated lose territory'
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who has become the center of attention with his statement regarding Israel's northern border, has called for expansion up to the Litani River. Smotrich's remarks have heightened tensions in the region.
12punto
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich made significant remarks in an interview with Israel Radio 94FM regarding the rising tension in Lebanon. The minister indicated that after the conflict in Israel's north, the border should reach as far as the Litani River.
DEMAND FOR A NEW BORDER UP TO THE LITANI
Stating in his remarks that Israeli military operations must result in the absolute defeat of Hezbollah, Smotrich said, "The war in Lebanon must end with the Litani River at least becoming Israel's new border. Attacks against Hezbollah must continue, and the organization must be decisively defeated."
When asked by the program host during the interview, "Will settlements be established?", Smotrich stated that this issue is not on their agenda for now, adding, "For now, we are talking about a fully cleared security zone."
THE DEFEATED LOSE TERRITORY
Delivering a very clear message of deterrence in his speech, Smotrich underscored strategic decisions for the region alongside military objectives. "Everyone who confronts us in the region must understand that when they are defeated, they lose territory," the minister said, emphasizing that "there must be a price for mistakes and defeat."
While Smotrich's remarks, including the phrase "Arabs do not calculate losses, they calculate territory," drew attention, it is assessed that these words could further complicate the delicate balances in the region.
While the minister's statements have sparked intense debate in Israel and the international community, experts comment that this statement could further increase tension on the ground.