Israel has long described its periodic military campaigns in Gaza against Hamas as “mowing the lawn,” a euphemism for degrading militant capabilities without pursuing lasting political solutions, Haaretz reported.
The approach, honed under successive Netanyahu governments, involved repeated airstrikes and artillery barrages while avoiding costly ground invasions.
Now, analysts say Israel is applying the same logic to Iran, relying on airpower and U.S. support to “degrade” Tehran’s military capacity rather than pursue regime change.
The strategy mirrors previous campaigns in Gaza and against Hezbollah in Lebanon, emphasizing deterrence over decisive victory.
Experts warn the approach is inherently temporary: Iran is likely to rebuild its missile and nuclear capabilities, prompting further Israeli strikes.
While Israel’s military superiority allows repeated operations, critics say perpetual conflict management traps Israelis and regional civilians in unending cycles of violence, underscoring the enduring consequences of rejecting diplomacy.