Everything we know
about the reported airstrikes in Syria over the past few days comes from
foreign sources. That's how it has to be: We live in a neighborhood
where every spark, even a verbal one, could set off an explosion. But if
the foreign reports are correct on the whole, if not in every detail,
then this is a great achievement for our prime minister -- on the
intelligence and operational levels, and primarily as a demonstration of
leadership.
While some of our
leaders are deeply immersed in Facebook squabbles, the real existential
battle is being fought in the shadows: gathering intelligence,
confirming intelligence reports, filtering out the actionable
information from the background noise, and the targeted elimination of
threats.
All this takes
determination. Israel established red lines on the transfer of
game-changing weapons from Syria to Hezbollah. These red lines were
necessary because Hezbollah is an irresponsible organization. Adhering
to these red lines is important beyond the danger posed by a particular
weapon. It is important at the strategic, regional level. Especially
when the United States may not be standing behind its own red lines.
If the reported events
really occurred, then Israel's exemplary performance has significance
beyond any specific weapons convoy. It communicated to the outside world
that Israel is determined to take action in the face of threats and is
not afraid to make operational decisions. We can assume that news of the
airstrike also reached Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's Iranian
allies. They certainly got the message that Israel is ready and willing
to use force if there is no other solution.
Here in Israel, we have
a tendency to deride our own decision-making ability. But in previous
strikes, as reported by foreign sources, as well as the most recent
ones, we have seen extraordinary intelligence capabilities, a high level
of intelligence penetration, the highest level of operational skills,
and decision-makers demonstrating exemplary determination.
If the foreign reports
are accurate then the team comprising the prime minister, the defense
minister, the chief of staff and the IDF did a very good job. They
demonstrated leadership, resolve and determination. It's not clear how
many people will remember to say thank you. It needs to be said.
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