Israel’s Buffer-Zone Military Strategy

Israel is implementing a buffer-zone military strategy in response to Islamist threats from alliances led by Iran and Turkey, particularly following the October 7, 2023, massacres. This strategy involves establishing Israeli-controlled areas on borders with territories held by Islamist organizations. In southern Lebanon, the IDF's 36th Armored Division captured Beaufort Castle from Hezbollah in May, destroying a decade-old tunnel system built by North Korean engineers at Iran's behest. An IDF officer stated, "Until we see signs of the Lebanese Army coming to disarm them, we’re keeping the knife to Hezbollah’s neck." Despite a June ceasefire, some Hezbollah fighters remain in tunnels, and Israeli commanders do not expect the ceasefire to last or for an agreement with the Beirut government.