Strategic Value?

Unfortunately the prophetic words of the Israeli Chief of Staff that Israel would turn back the clock in Lebanon by 20 years seems to be happening. No one will be spared it seems. We have heard about the destruction of bridges, roads, highways and power plants; in the case of one power plant, the resulting oil spill off the coast has had far reaching environmental consequences.

But there are smaller stories that bear reporting and exposing. These small targets demonstrate that Israel has little interest in removing the Hizbullah threat (partly because it can't) and is pathetically sowing misery all across Lebanon to punish each and every Lebanese man, woman and child for the actions of a minority.

Journalists that visited one city in the south of Lebanon reported massive destruction. In addition to many homes and apartments razed in Baalbek, a milk factory and the Middle East's second biggest glass factory were also destroyed by Israeli jets. The glass factory was actually Indian owned so it is doubtful that Hizbullah profited from this enterprise. And rotting milk helps no one, not even vengeful Israel.

Why were these targets chosen? What possible strategic value do milk and glass hold for Israel? None. This was spite, pure and simple and it's pathetic.

Hizbullah and Lebanon will not cry over this spilled milk but for each home and small business destroyed their hatred for Israel will grow. Not a good recipe for a state claiming to be desperate for peace with its irrational Arab neighbours. As you well know Israel, memory is long.