This creates a conundrum for the Israeli military, where Hezbollah wins either way: If the IDF shies away from attacking because of the proximity of civilians, Hezbollah's terror infrastructure remains in place.
And if the IDF attacks, no matter how carefully, there will be collateral damage -- triggering condemnation in the media, and emboldening Hezbollah to operate from civilian areas.
Couldn't agree more Snooker, which is why I think Israel's current actions are counter productive. I do believe they are operating in residential areas and they are probably counting on retaliatory air strikes into these same areas...once they have cleared out like cowardly dogs. I have to wonder at the sense at waging such a war with air power when the enemy is so mobile. I think Israel is playing into their hands.
Much like Iran, I think they deliberately provoke the US knowing US cannot get into a ground war, air strikes do temporary damage but rally opposition to the West and often the civilians bear the brunt. This is why I think the US's middle east strategy is folly. Has fundamental Islam and terrorism been weakened by US action since 9/11? I don't believe so. Perhaps fundamental Islam was on the rise regardless, but I think US action has exacerbated the situation.
