U.S., European and Arab mediators are working to prevent escalated cross-border attacks between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah militants from sparking a wider conflict in the Middle East, a scenario that has been feared for months.
Efforts for a cease-fire in Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza seem unlikely, which could further exacerbate tensions with Hezbollah and other Iranian-allied militias. American and European officials are cautioning Hezbollah, a stronger force than Hamas but potentially overconfident, against challenging Israel’s military superiority, as per current and former diplomats.
Hezbollah is being advised not to underestimate Israel’s readiness for an offensive into Lebanon, as well as the potential consequences for its fighters.
US, Europe warn Lebanon’s Hezbollah to ease strikes, back off from wider war
Recent attacks between Israel and Hezbollah, two well-armed adversaries, have somewhat stabilized. While skirmishes persist, there are signs of de-escalation, encouraging hopes of immediate relief that prompted the U.S. to deploy military assets to the region to deter further conflict.
The future of attacks and potential invasion into Lebanon remains uncertain, but both sides are preparing for a significant escalation, according to Gerald Feierstein, a former U.S. diplomat.
The message to Hezbollah is clear: to avoid underestimating their capabilities.
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Following Hamas’ attacks on Israel in early October, Hezbollah has joined the conflict by launching rockets into Israel, resulting in a crisis that has displaced civilians on both sides of the border. The situation grew more intense after Israel’s targeted killing of a top Hezbollah commander, prompting fears of a devastating war.
Both Israel and Hezbollah possess the capability to cause significant damage, with the potential for a catastrophic war described by U.N. officials. Regional allies and expert warnings underscore the severity and complexity of a potential conflict.
Efforts to prevent all-out war include diplomatic interventions by the U.S., Europeans, and regional partners, aiming to steer the situation towards de-escalation.
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The White House emphasizes Israel’s right to self-defense but discourages opening a second front. Dialogue with Israeli and Lebanese officials focuses on preventing a wider conflict in the Middle East.
While prospects for a Gaza cease-fire may influence tensions with Lebanon, uncertainties persist, underlining the importance of diplomatic solutions to avoid a catastrophic escalation.
