Former Israeli Navy Commander: Prepare for Multi-Week Wars With Iran

Former Israeli Navy commander Maj. Gen. (res.) Eli Marom, known as "Chainey," has warned that Israel should prepare for recurring military confrontations with Iran lasting days or even weeks, criticizing the emerging ceasefire arrangements involving Lebanon and Tehran.

Speaking to Radio 103FM, Marom argued that any agreement reached now would not end the long-term threat posed by Iran.

"We are in a long war against Iran, and Israel needs to prepare every few months for an operation or a war with Iran that could last several days or several weeks," Marom said. "If this agreement is signed, we need to understand that reality and prepare for it."

Marom also sharply criticized U.S. involvement in the negotiations, claiming that the reported understandings effectively strengthen Iranian influence in Lebanon.

"President Trump, in what he signed overnight, is approving Iran's takeover of Lebanon," Marom said. "He is signing an agreement with the Iranians regarding Lebanon. Lebanon's president should be insulted by this. Leaders across the Middle East—President el-Sisi, President Erdoğan, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman—should understand that this is a bad agreement."

The retired admiral further criticized Israel's decision-making process, arguing that key advisers are absent from strategic discussions.

"The support structure around the prime minister no longer exists," he said. "One person is making the decisions. Even Ron Dermer, who understands America and has done good things with this administration, has left. We need to call him back into service. It is unacceptable that we arrive at talks in Washington with only two brigadier generals."

Marom argued that Israel should move quickly toward a direct arrangement with Lebanon aimed at preventing Iran from entrenching itself further in the country.

"The IDF recommended this beforehand - advance quickly toward an agreement with Lebanon and, in the process, prevent Iran from taking Lebanon under its patronage," he said. "The only diplomatic option currently available is to reach an understanding with the Lebanese and say that once the Lebanese Army is strong enough, southern Lebanon can be returned to its control. President Aoun accepts this approach, and we should move forward on that track."

Asked what would happen if Iran responded with missile attacks to Israeli military operations in Lebanon, Marom dismissed the concern.

"Let there be missiles," he said. "This agreement is bad for Israel under any circumstances. If they want to return to fighting, I don't like saying it, but from Israel's perspective that is a preferable alternative."