📷 Image Credits: The Times of India
In the midst of escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, the chief of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, issued a threat last week to attack Cyprus if the Mediterranean island provided military support to Israel. The warnings come as fears of a full-scale war loom over the region.’
The U.S. has cautioned Israel against any actions that could potentially escalate the conflict, as it may prompt other Iran-backed Shiite militias from various countries to join in the conflict. This raises concerns about how European nations would respond if faced with similar threats from Nasrallah regarding their disagreements with Tehran. Furthermore, questions arise about the potential use of nuclear weapons by Iran against Cyprus or other European nations in the future.’
Cyprus has drawn attention from Iran due to its involvement in inspecting humanitarian aid bound for Gaza, a move opposed by Hamas, which fears losing control over aid distribution. The U.S. has been advising Israel to exercise restraint in dealing with Hezbollah, without providing a clear alternative strategy. However, Washington’s stance of asking Israel to comply with Nasrallah’s demands, such as ending the conflict in Gaza to stop attacks from Hezbollah, has raised concerns about the implications of giving in to such demands.’
In the past, Hezbollah initiated a war with Israel in 2006, leading to a month-long conflict and the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. This resolution called for the disarmament of all militias in Lebanon and set specific requirements for Hezbollah’s redeployment and border disputes between Lebanon and Israel. Despite recent maritime border negotiations between the two countries in 2022, Hezbollah has refused to address the remaining land border disputes, escalating tensions further.’
Hezbollah’s recent offensive against Israel following the conflict with Hamas in Gaza has raised concerns about the group’s intentions and the potential for a full-scale conflict. Nasrallah’s statements about an upcoming battle with Israel changing the region and leading to Israel’s annihilation have added to the existing fears. The Biden administration’s response, primarily advising Israel to avoid conflict in the north by stopping its southern offensive, has drawn criticism for its perceived lack of effective strategies. With Nasrallah’s threats extending beyond the region to Europe, the situation remains volatile and uncertain.
