CENTCOM thinks outside the box on Hamas and Hezbollah

[William F. Owen]

The current tact also robs Israel of legitimacy in the eyes of its Arab neighbors, who deep in their hearts believe that it can only exist as a state with the support of Western powers, thereby driving them to destroy it far more than any (ideological) issues of religion do.

Sorry, but nothing ANYONE can do will make Israel legitimate in Arab eyes. Nothing. That IS the source of the conflict? There is no peaceful resolution, other than recognition, or destruction.

We disempower the terrorist arms of Hezbollah and Hamas best by recognizing fully their legitimate roles in the states of Lebanon and Palestine, and in turn holding those states responsible for their actions.

That makes no sense. They are armed organisations. No arms, no existence. Recognising their legitimacy just makes them stronger.
"Give up the armed struggle and we will recognise you?" Is that the offer? If they are not being instrumental in opposing Israel, they will cease to exist.

Neither the populations or government would see themselves as responsible for their actions. Hezbollah doesn't become more vulnerable because its part of the Lebanese Government and Army. It just has access to greater resources/funds/manpower.

Moreover Hamas are the de-facto state in Gaza, and, as you note, Hezbollah is a part of the Lebanese Government. How is the Lebanese Government NOT responsible for Hezbollah action, right now? The exist in the Lebanon under the protection and patronage of the Lebanese.

What about inviting the Taliban to help form a Government in Kabul or Al Quaida in Iraq? Make any sense?