Tensions Rise as Israel Eyes War in Lebanon Amidst Escalating Conflict with Hezbollah – HeadlineFly.com

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📷 Image Credits: Middle East Eye

Amid escalating tensions, Israel is on the brink of a potential war with Lebanon, particularly with the powerful Lebanese militia Hezbollah. The conflict, fueled by recent clashes, has raised concerns of a broader conflict in the Middle East. Ever since Israel’s ground attack on Gaza intensified and continued for an unprecedented period, the risk of the conflict spilling over into Lebanon became a stark reality. The region witnessed flames around Kiryat Shmona as Hezbollah launched missiles and drones, igniting brushfires. The undeclared war between Hezbollah and the Israeli army in the north has been intensifying, with both sides exchanging heavy blows across a widening area.

Israel targeted senior Hezbollah commanders, prompting Hezbollah to showcase the qualitative difference in its rocket force compared to Hamas. The situation escalated when Hezbollah launched heavy Burkan rockets towards a military base near Kiryat Shmona, causing significant damage. Additionally, Hezbollah downed a surveillance drone and demonstrated its missile capabilities against Israel’s Iron Dome. The cross-border conflict has led to the evacuation of 60,000 Israelis from homes near the Lebanese border, creating deserted ‘ghost’ towns in the region with suspended public services and closed schools.

Israeli officials are considering strategies to address the crisis, with former national security adviser Eyal Hulata emphasizing the need for displaced civilians to return. Army chief of staff, Herzi Halevi, hinted at a potential attack in the north, raising concerns about a decisive moment. Despite the looming threat of a full-blown war, several obstacles could hinder Israel’s military actions. The nation’s limited supply of guided bombs and missiles, coupled with the reluctance of the US to provide additional weapons, pose challenges for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s aggressive stance.

Moreover, Israeli citizens are displaying signs of war fatigue, with reports of reservists not showing up for duty, signaling dissent and exhaustion from perpetual conflicts. A potential war in Lebanon could have severe consequences for Israel, impacting its economy and high-tech industry. As pressure mounts on Netanyahu, political dynamics within Israel, including far-right factions and the issue of military service for ultra-orthodox Jews, add further complexity to the situation. Amidst the volatile environment, the possibility of a wider conflict with Hezbollah underscores the delicate balance between aggression and restraint in the region.