by Ram ben Ze'ev
The recent 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, brokered by France under the auspices of the Biden administration, has sparked significant debate among Israelis and Jews worldwide. To many, the agreement appears as yet another concession from Israel, requiring compliance while the Lebanese government-protected Hezbollah terrorists remain free to attack Israeli civilians and soldiers with impunity. However, a closer examination of the situation reveals a calculated decision by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to protect Israel’s sovereignty and security under extremely challenging circumstances.
Historically, ceasefires involving Israel are one-sided. This latest deal is no exception. Within days of the agreement, Hezbollah resumed its attacks against the Israeli Defence Forces, underscoring the futility of expecting terrorists to honour any diplomatic resolution. For Israel, this ceasefire is not a reflection of weakness but a temporary measure to counter the broader international threats that could have jeopardized the nation's very existence.
The timing of the ceasefire, ending just days before President Donald Trump’s inauguration, is no coincidence. President Trump has already articulated plans to secure the release of 101 hostages held in Gaza by these terrorists and to halt the unrelenting attacks on Israel. The anticipation of strong U.S. support under Trump contrasts sharply with the hostility of the outgoing Biden administration, which has consistently undermined Israel’s security through slow-walking critical military armaments and opposing its right to defend itself.
A critical factor in Israel’s decision was a looming threat of a United Nations resolution orchestrated by France’s anti-Semitic government under Emmanuel Macron. France intended to table a resolution forcing a permanent ceasefire on terms overwhelmingly detrimental to Israel. With the Biden administration’s plan to abstain rather than veto the resolution, it was all but guaranteed to pass the UN Security Council, effectively stripping Israel of its ability to defend itself and its sovereignty. Such an outcome would have emboldened Hezbollah and its backers in Iran, plunging Israel into an even more precarious position.
By agreeing to the 60-day ceasefire, Netanyahu avoided this catastrophic scenario, buying precious time until President Trump’s inauguration. This strategic decision reflects a deep understanding of the international landscape and a commitment to safeguarding the Jewish state against existential threats.
This episode is emblematic of the challenges Israel faces on the global stage. The Biden administration, through its inaction and tacit support for anti-Israel resolutions, has proven itself no ally to the Jewish people. France, a country with a long history of anti-Semitism, has openly aligned itself with Israel’s enemies. In contrast, President Trump has demonstrated unwavering support for Israel, standing firmly against terrorism and ensuring Israel's right to defend itself.
For Israelis and Jews worldwide, the lesson is clear: Israel’s survival depends not only on its military strength but also on its ability to navigate a hostile international environment. Netanyahu’s decision, though controversial, reflects a pragmatic approach to an untenable situation, ensuring that Israel remains strong and ready for the next phase under Trump’s leadership.
As attacks continue even during this so-called ceasefire, it is imperative for all those who support Israel to stand united. The Jewish people have faced centuries of persecution, yet we have always endured. Now is no different. With President Trump set to take office, there is hope for a new era of strength and security for Israel. Until then, the world must recognise the truth: Israel agreed to this ceasefire not out of weakness, but as a calculated move to protect its people and sovereignty.
Israel will endure, as it always has, standing as a beacon of resilience and faith amidst the darkness of its adversaries. The Jewish people, too, will remain steadfast, knowing that G-D’s hand guides us, and that justice will ultimately prevail.
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Bill White (Ram ben Ze'ev) is CEO of WireNews Limited, Mayside Partners Limited, MEADHANAN Agency, Kestrel Assets Limited (developer of MAYCOINS), SpudsToGo Limited and Executive Director of Hebrew Synagogue