IDF general warns talks with Hamas, Hezbollah lack a clear strategy for victory - interview

According to former IDF general Oren Avman, recent diplomatic talks involving Israel, Gaza, and Lebanon are largely ineffective and lack a clear strategy for victory. Avman, who previously commanded the Kfir Brigade, expressed skepticism about the current diplomatic process, questioning whether it is being used to mislead or create a false reality. He noted that state entities have become almost non-existent in our strategic reality over the past 25 years.

Avman emphasized the importance of diplomacy, but stressed that it must lead to tangible outcomes and not result in compromising on essential issues. He acknowledged that in extreme cases, such as hostage situations, negotiations with enemy forces may be necessary, but he drew a clear distinction between operations aimed at saving lives and other diplomatic efforts, like funding or political discussions.

Regarding Lebanon, Avman criticized the absence of a clear political objective in the ongoing talks. He described the situation as a situation akin to the movie "Home Alone 2," where the IDF is caught in a cycle of localized battles of attrition without a comprehensive strategy. He highlighted two core issues plaguing Israel: decision-making paralysis and an overburdened IDF facing a reality that is difficult for both reserve and active-duty soldiers to grasp.