“2 Lebanese…” is the most recent of several articles published in the last two months about a crackdown on Lebanese who spy on behalf of Israel.
What each report has lacked is a broader analysis of how these prosecutions are connected to the ascent of Hezbollah, itself an organization alien to Lebanon. In other words, Hezbollah, which takes directives from Iran and Syria, drives the espionage charges, but no reporter has cast an ironic glance toward them.
What each report has lacked is a broader analysis of how these prosecutions are connected to the ascent of Hezbollah, itself an organization alien to Lebanon. In other words, Hezbollah, which takes directives from Iran and Syria, drives the espionage charges, but no reporter has cast an ironic glance toward them.
As the AP reports, “The arrests…appear to have singled out those suspected of gathering information about Hezbollah’s militants.” Reporters should question whether the charges are in the interest of Lebanon, a state fighting for its independence, or Hezbollah, a terrorist organization.
One could make the case that those who spy on Hezbollah are acting in a patriotic fashion. The fact that Israel backs them is not an indication that the spies are lovers of Israel but, rather, that Israel is the only force in the region that is stronger than Hezbollah.
Lastly, readers should be assured that Hezbollah-directed raids intended to gather incriminating evidence are done outside of any legal framework, reinforcing the chaotic, lawless environment in Lebanon.
One could make the case that those who spy on Hezbollah are acting in a patriotic fashion. The fact that Israel backs them is not an indication that the spies are lovers of Israel but, rather, that Israel is the only force in the region that is stronger than Hezbollah.
Lastly, readers should be assured that Hezbollah-directed raids intended to gather incriminating evidence are done outside of any legal framework, reinforcing the chaotic, lawless environment in Lebanon.
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Abes, I don't think you can make such a clear distinction between Hezbollah and Lebanon.
ReplyDeleteHezbollah clearly receives directives from Iran but the organization is still clearly a part of Lebanon and receives significant support from Lebanese - specifically the Shi'a population.
I believe the main point though is that many Lebanese (if not a clear plurality) are opposed to Hezbollah and do not wish to live under Islamist rule. Such Lebanese may be receptive to spying on behalf of Israel against Hezbollah, not for love of Israel, but out of opposition to "The Party of God."
The Times though, doesn't wish to delve into any deeper analysis, just leaving us with a shallow article that doesn't say much.
Two hostile entities spy on each other? Duh.