Israel’s apprehension of Hezbollah goes beyond the weapons it possesses to include Nasrallah’s hostile rhetoric and understanding of Israeli society. Nasrallah’s downfall can be attributed to his rhetoric, especially his famous declaration in 2000 that Israel is weaker than a spider’s web.
Despite the Second Lebanon War in 2006, Nasrallah’s perception of Israeli society as weak was reinforced by judicial upheavals. This rhetoric, aimed at undermining Israel, led Hezbollah to enter wars, sometimes against its will.
Rhetoric plays a role in shaping self-image too, as seen in Hezbollah’s false claims during recent conflicts. Nasrallah’s departure from his usual measured approach indicates the pressure he was under and the need to restore honor.
Iranian rhetoric echoes Hezbollah’s patterns
Iran also uses boastful rhetoric, which like Hezbollah’s, may stem from an inability to face failure. The media landscape’s transformation allows for scrutiny of such claims, revealing their falsity.
In conclusion, the delusion created by exaggerated rhetoric can have dire consequences. Prof. Elie Podeh and Eitan Yishai shed light on this phenomenon from a scholarly perspective.
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