If it was in the works for so long, then this is, or was, an Israeli trump card.
Imagine how much more useful this would have been if used during an actual war between Israel and Hezbollah.
Not only would it kill and wound Hezbollah personnel directly, but it would also paralyse Hezbollah command and control for a time as it distributes alternative comms gear across its organisation, during active combat operations. That was the real power of the move.
It could have been a total game changing moment for the Israelis, especially if used during a critical moment or during a large operation with significant Hezbollah personal actively engaged on the frontlines. It’s the sort of move that can turn the tide and win wars.
That Israel used this move now, for so little gain, should be seen as a sign of just how desperate Israel is becoming. This is a true Blinken ‘position of strength’ move.
This is also why I think Iran and Hezbollah will hold firm to their current strategy. While it’s not as spectacular or satisfying as blowing things up all across Israel. The slow social economic strangulation and diplomatic isolation is far more damaging to the Israeli state. Fighting alone, Israel is slowly dying from a thousand cuts. It desperately needs to drag America into the fight to take the pressure off. America isn’t totally stupid and compromised by Israel, so isn’t allowing Israel to do that, which is why Israel needs Iran and Hezbollah to start a war to force America’s hand.
