Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has unveiled a strategy based on the logic of leverage, arguing that Israel’s military power is the key tool being used to forge a new peace in the north. On Sunday, he stated that the successful campaign against Hezbollah has given Israel the necessary leverage to bring Syria to the negotiating table and compel action in Lebanon.
This leverage is most effectively being applied to Syria. The combination of a new, less ideological government and the demonstration of Israeli military capability has created a powerful incentive for Damascus to negotiate. A Syrian official has confirmed that talks for a security deal are advancing, with a goal of completion by year’s end.
In Lebanon, the leverage is being used to alter the internal balance of power. Continued Israeli military strikes weaken Hezbollah, while U.S. diplomatic pressure provides the Lebanese government with both a reason and an opportunity to act. This has resulted in Beirut’s historic decision to begin disarming the militia.
“Our victories… have opened a window for… peace,” Netanyahu explained, articulating the core of his leverage-based strategy. He confirmed that this approach has already generated “some progress” in the high-stakes negotiations with Syria.
The results of this applied leverage are becoming clear. Syria is considering a demilitarized zone, a major concession. Lebanon has committed to a timeline to disarm Hezbollah in the south. By converting military success into diplomatic leverage, Israel is reshaping its northern security environment.