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The Times of Israel1 day
Israel Calls on Civilians to Flee All of South Lebanon, Beirut's Southern Suburbs
Is Israel legitimately defending itself from Hezbollah attacks or committing grave war crimes against Lebanon's civilian population?
Above: Smoke plumes billow following Israeli bombardment of Beirut's southern suburbs on Mar. 2. Image credit: Ibrahim Amro/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
Hezbollah dragged Lebanon into Iran's war by launching illegal attacks on Israel, forcing defensive operations to protect Israeli civilians. The terrorist group remains Tehran's puppet despite heavy losses, choosing to break the ceasefire and join Iran's assault. Israel must eliminate Hezbollah's command structure and weapons infrastructure to stop the Iranian proxy from threatening the region.
Anti-Israel narrative
Though Hezbollah has acted unilaterally without the approval of Lebanon's people, it is clear that Israel was planning a barbaric campaign on Lebanon before Hezbollah fired a single rocket. Forcing hundreds of thousands from their homes while promising to turn Beirut into another Gaza proves this is a campaign of destruction and ethnic cleansing. Furthermore, Israel seeks to tear apart Lebanon's social fabric, with Israel purposefully striking shelters for the displaced to stoke sectarian tensions.
Pro-Iran narrative
Hezbollah had no other choice but to strike Israel, as Israeli forces were already massing on the border in preparation for a ground invasion. What is most disappointing is that the Lebanese government, instead of supporting the resistance, is working alongside the occupiers and impeding Hezbollah's movements. Everyone knows that the Lebanese army, which is dependent on the U.S., will never be able to protect Lebanon from Israeli aggression, and only Hezbollah can liberate the south.