Lebanese Journalist Maria Malouf Gives Insight into Tensions Between Israel and Hezbollah
Maria Malouf, a Lebanese journalist who caused uproar in her country six years ago with a controversial statement calling on Israel to assassinate Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah, has spoken out from her exile in the USA. Malouf fled her home country in 2021 due to threats on her life following the accusations of collaborating with Israel.
From her perspective in the backdrop of the current war and heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, Malouf suggests that Nasrallah’s recent public statements and declarations of support for the Palestinian struggle may actually be a form of posturing. She states, “He is trying to preserve the honor and the good name” and that his recent actions may be more about public relations than a true desire for war.
Upon analyzing the recent speeches of Hassan Nasrallah, Malouf was surprised to find that he encouraged negotiations and a ceasefire while also attempting to imply support for the Palestinian struggle. This has led to speculation about whether Nasrallah is truly pushing for all-out war or simply trying to increase provocations for the sake of public demonstration.
When asked about public opinion in Lebanon and whether there is criticism of Nasrallah, Malouf pointed out that there is a strong political front in Lebanon opposed to entering a war with Israel. She also highlighted the deep resentment and explicit warnings being expressed in Lebanon against any potential war, given the country’s inability to deal with the consequences of such action.
Regarding the current economic and political crises in Lebanon and their potential impact on Hezbollah’s decision to enter into all-out war with Israel, Malouf suggested that the decision would arouse great irritation and uneasiness among the Lebanese people. She also noted that Nasrallah is reportedly committed to a ceasefire agreement established in 2006, indicating that he may be hesitant to engage in a full-scale conflict at this time.
By providing insight from her unique vantage point, Maria Malouf’s perspective sheds light on the complex dynamics between Israel and Hezbollah and the potential consequences of any further escalation of tensions.