Why Israel Must Declare War Now and Preemptively Strike Iran & Hezbollah

Emergency services work at a destroyed building hit by an air strike in Damascus, Syria, on April 1, 2024. (Omar Sanadiki/AP)

In the current geopolitical climate, Israel stands at a critical historical juncture. Faced with a multitude of enemies and threats, Israel cannot afford to continue its current “sitting duck” or tit-for-tat strategies with Hezbollah and Iran. Israel is now bracing for potential retaliation from Iran, in retribution for the killing of Hamas’ Ismael Haniyeh in Tehran, and from Hezbollah for the killing of Fouad Shukr in Beirut. This volatile position underscores Israel’s need to formally declare war on Iran, and launch a preemptive strike against it and its tentacles in Lebanon, to neutralize these threats before they materialize into a coordinated attack on Israel.

Israel’s attack on Hodeida in Yemen has inflicted enough damage to keep the Houthis occupied in the short term, although they will likely need reminders. The assassinations of Ismael Haniyeh in Tehran and Fouad Shukr in Beirut have demonstrated Israel’s ability to strike at the heart of enemy leadership, in the heart of thei capitals, and signaling its readiness to defend its sovereignty, however and wherever necessary. But as Israel braces for potential retaliation, it must act decisively to neutralize these threats and restore its deterrent capability.

Iran has long orchestrated its network of proxies aimed at encircling and destabilizing Israel. Tehran provides substantial support to Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza and the West Bank, and the Houthis in Yemen, among other Shia terrorists. These groups, emboldened by Iranian backing, and hesitation to act on Israel’s part, continue to pose a significant, ongoing, and daily threat to Israel’s security.

Moreover, Hezbollah’s recent actions, such as moving weapons, equipment, and personnel out of its Beirut headquarters, indicate its preparations for potential conflict. These and other actions suggest an anticipation of escalation, planning and further emphasizing the urgent need for Israel to act decisively against these growing threats.

Israel’s current geopolitical environment is marked by heightened isolation internationally, with citizens along its borders being relocated and the nation at a complete standstill. This situation is unsustainable but also presents a unique opportunity to act decisively. Additionally, with the Jewish calendar today marking Rosh Chodesh Av, a historically somber time for the Jewish people, there is a profound need for vigilance and proactive defense.  The Torah’s guidance is clear: “If someone comes to kill you, rise early and kill him first.” This principle should help our leaders with their strategic and moral decision-making and for Israel to act decisively to protect its citizens.

Historical precedents highlight the dangers of complacency. The Yom Kippur War of 1973 serves as a reminder of the consequences of waiting for an adversary to strike first, resulting in heavy casualties and strategic setbacks. In contrast, the Six-Day War of 1967 demonstrated the benefits of preemptive action, securing Israel’s military dominance and regional security. Today, Israel must apply these lessons to its current predicament. The threats posed by Iran and its proxies are not isolated incidents but part of a coordinated effort to harm it.

Critics of preemptive military action often warn that such moves could escalate into broader conflicts across the Middle East. However, Israel’s primary obligation is to safeguard its national interests and the security of its citizens. The reality is that regional tensions are already high, and conflict may be inevitable regardless of who initiates it. By taking the initiative, Israel can shape the strategic environment to its advantage and deter further aggression.

The existential threats posed by Iran and its network of proxies necessitate a bold and proactive response from Israel. A preemptive strike, targeting all identified threats, would signal to Iran and the international community that Israel is committed to defending its sovereignty and ensuring its security. Such actions would not only reaffirm Israel’s strategic dominance but also serve as a powerful deterrent to future aggression.