Lebanon 1982 and now

We need to learn from our mistakes.

In 1982 Israel allowed the PLO to escape from Lebanon to Tunis. Later the PLO returned and brought two intifadas.

Now Israel has a chance to destroy Hezbollah. So why is Israel willing to sign a truce? Why is Israel willing to repeat the mistake of 1982?

Ben Gvir says that we should ask the commanders in the field. Indeed, when people have medical issues, they ask a doctor. Legal issues — a lawyer. And so on. We ask experts in that field.

So too with a military issue — we need to ask the experts, the commanders who are fighting.

We need to ask military commanders who do not have political bias or interests. Those fighting now, those in the midst of the battle, they know what needs to be done for security.

In 1982, the Lubavitcher Rebbe spoke passionately about not letting the PLO escape. Israel didn’t listen.

The Rebbe spoke passionately about the danger of giving away land. Israel didn’t listen. October 7 was the result.

Now, as Israel contemplates the possibility of a truce in Lebanon, it’s important that we think back to Lebanon 1982, and not repeat the mistake.

When we stand proud as Jews defending our land and our people, and not worry about what the nations might say, then we will widen the channels to receive G-d’s blessings, so that our efforts to stand strong, destroy the enemy, and defend the land of Israel, will be successful.