Dr. Ron Schleifer warns that Washington is placing its hopes—and its money—on an institution that cannot and will not confront Hezbollah.
The belief that the Lebanese army will eliminate Hezbollah is a “fairy tale,” according to psychological warfare expert Dr. Ron Schleifer.
Lebanon’s military reflects the country’s deep sectarian divisions, with many Muslim and Shiite soldiers and officers. Schleifer argues that expecting these forces to wage war against Hezbollah means asking them to fight members of their own community while risking a renewed Lebanese civil conflict.
Nevertheless, the White House is preparing to provide the Lebanese army with additional weapons and funding so it can supposedly enforce the emerging agreement and prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding. Schleifer believes the money will not achieve its stated purpose.
