During a recent segment on Fox News Channel’s “America Reports,” Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, delivered a pointed message regarding the situation in Lebanon. He emphasized that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are the only power capable of dismantling Hezbollah, acknowledging the Lebanese government’s lack of full control over its own territory.
Danon clarified, “Our issue is not with Lebanon or its people, but with Hezbollah. Both Israelis and Lebanese share a common objective: the removal of Hezbollah from Lebanon, plain and simple.” He further mentioned a scheduled ceasefire at 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, expressing hope for ongoing dialogue with Lebanon. Still, Danon stressed that Lebanon’s government must muster the strength and determination to assert its authority.
Fox News co-host John Roberts brought historical context into the conversation, recalling Israel’s successful push in 1982 for Lebanon to expel the PLO, leading to their relocation to Tunisia. However, Roberts noted that Hezbollah presents a far more complex challenge than the PLO did then. He pointed out that in a direct confrontation, Hezbollah would likely overpower the Lebanese military, questioning how Lebanon might gain the leverage needed to dismantle and expel Hezbollah.
In response, Danon agreed with Roberts’ assessment. “You’re right, John. The IDF is the only force capable of dismantling Hezbollah, and we have been working towards that end,” Danon stated. He mentioned a ceasefire agreement from November 2024, which called for Lebanon to assert control in southern regions by removing launchers and pushing Hezbollah out. Danon noted Lebanon’s failure to fulfill these commitments, urging caution in future agreements. He reiterated the ultimate goal: a Lebanon free from both Hezbollah and Iranian influence.
