The Middle East is on the brink of a larger-scale conflict as Israel and Iran exchange warnings over escalating tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border and in the ongoing war in Gaza. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are prepared for various security scenarios to protect Israel from threats, while Iran has threatened an 'obliterating war' if Israel embarks on military aggression.
The worsening clashes between Israel and Hezbollah along the Lebanon border have raised concerns of a full-scale war in the region. The Axis of Resistance factions, including Hezbollah, have entered the battle in Gaza and called for expansion of activities to include Jordan. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu views Iran as a seven-front war and aims to cut off Hamas first.
The IDF has been preparing for various security scenarios to protect Israel from threats. On June 28, 2024, the USS Wasp entered the eastern Mediterranean Sea as part of an effort by the U.S. to deter a wider war in the Middle East between Israel and Hezbollah.
The Iranian Mission to the United Nations (UN) shared a grave warning with Newsweek on June 30, 2024, stating that 'Albeit Iran has always been committed to peace and stability in the region, it will not hesitate to defend itself and its allies against any aggression.'
The ongoing tensions have also led to concerns of a potential conflict between Israel and Iran. Sheikh Naim Qassem, Hezbollah's deputy secretary-general, warned that 'Israel is playing with fire,' while Israeli officials have stated that they will not allow Iran to establish a military presence in Syria.
The situation remains volatile as both sides continue to exchange threats and engage in military actions. The international community, including the UN, has called for de-escalation and diplomacy to prevent a larger-scale conflict.