Watching the IDF (catch all)

[Rank amateur]

I am not disparaging Hezbollah for an inability to hold ground. I am correcting the perception that they successfully defended any villages - and when they did try, they were unable to do it, according to the men I have talked to.

No offense, but I think that the men you've talked to have too short of a time frame. Isreal isn't occupying any villages now.

how ever the idea that the IDF somehow lacked tactical or operational skill

I don't think that is the suggestion.

and was out fought by Hezbollah

That is the suggestion

then he can be defeated because sufficient fear will lead to withdrawal.

To me, it appears as though Hezbollah inflicted sufficient fear to cause withdrawal. Like I said, that isn't necessary defeat, but if the war ends after one side withdraws, it certainly looks like defeat to me. Germany withdrew from France. WWI ended. Germany was defeated.