An Argument for Wars of Deterrence

Ari Shavit writes in opposition to the people he calls "Goldstoners":

It's a simple story. In the absence of peace in the Middle East, deterrence prevents war. Israeli deterrence has been eroded considerably by two Lebanon wars, two intifadas and two unilateral withdrawals. Thus Israel is incessantly subjected to terror attacks.
    
To prevent the region's deterioration into complete chaos, Israel must exercise force once every few years. These limited demonstrations of power do not achieve a decisive military victory or a breakthrough in the peace process. Their entire purpose is to stabilize the violent relationship between Israelis and Arabs. Thus they create a temporary, strong-arm balance that subdues the conflict and ensures calm for a few years.