The big question in Israel now is - whose heads are going to roll in the aftermath of the war with Hizbollah? There's a widespread consensus that the government acted slowly, hesitantly and irresponsibly during the war. There's also a consensus that some of the generals have gotten too comfortable in their jobs and neglected key aspects of Israel's defense, namely the reserve system. There will also have to be answers given as to why the new missle defense system for tanks that is capable of countering the Russian Kornet anti-tank system was not added to the Merkava's arsenal. What use is a new technology if the only people using are scientists? There were also several mishaps during infantry assaults which are embarrassing. And lets not forget how the enemy used media broadcasts, which featured IDF units against landmarks easily recognizable by anyone who knows the terrain. This flare-up that has caused so much internal political damage to the government, has allowed the enemy to get a diplomatic victory with a "cease-fire," and that set the stage for a larger battle in the future can yet be used for the good of Israel.

In studying the errors of the 34 days, Israel can improve itself and face the enemy much better prepared, both with the right military hardware and with a more focused and resolute mindset. There is little doubt that Hizbollah will strike again and that Iran and Syria will continue to supply it with arms and money. There's also little doubt that the next Israeli government to be voted in will act in a manner befitting of a sovereign state defending itself. Netanyahu and the rest of the right must rise to the occassion. The alternative is gradual military defeat and a parallel national decline. And faithful readers of my blog know by now that such a disaster cannot happen for both practical reasons and for loftier spiritual ones.