Israeli war‑plan “Little Pines” allegedly intended to trigger conflict with Syria and reshape Lebanon’s political landscape

Summary

Israeli war‑plan “Little Pines” allegedly intended to trigger conflict with Syria and reshape Lebanon’s political landscape The passage outlines a detailed Israeli military simulation that foresees direct confrontation with Syrian forces and a broader political strategy to install Bashir Gemayel’s government, expel Syrian troops, and manipulate Palestinian and Jordanian dynamics. It names high‑profile actors (Ariel Sharon, Bashir Gemayel, Syrian military, King Hussein) and suggests a pre‑planned escalation, offering concrete leads (the 40‑km line, the Beirut‑Damascus road, the February 1982 simulation) for further investigation. While the content is sensitive and potentially explosive, similar strategic discussions have been reported, limiting its novelty to a moderate‑high level. Key insights: ‘Little Pines’ war‑plan would inevitably clash with Syrian forces due to its geographic scope.; A February 1982 simulation in the Kirya concluded the plan would become ‘Big Pines’, expanding the conflict.; Israeli leadership (referenced as ‘Arik’, likely Ariel Sharon) aimed to install Bashir Gemayel as Lebanon’s ruler aligned with Israel.