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The New York Times: Tensions are escalating on Israel’s border with Lebanon, even as Israel is engaged in military action in Gaza against Hamas. The Israeli Army has had four straight days of clashes with militants in Lebanon, with various Palestinian factions claiming responsibility for attacks on Israeli territory. However, the most significant threat to Israel is Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran. The recent fighting is the most serious escalation since the Israel-Lebanon war in 2006. The situation is further complicated as Hamas has strengthened ties with Iran and Hezbollah, prompting analysts to question whether Israel might soon find itself fighting on three fronts—Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.
Why Tensions Are Rising:
- Multiple Fronts: Israel is already engaged in military operations against Hamas in Gaza. The simultaneous escalation on the Lebanese border strains Israel’s military resources.
- Hezbollah’s Influence: Hezbollah, backed by Iran, is a formidable force with thousands of fighters and a vast arsenal of rockets. They have been involved in Syria’s civil war and have grown stronger over the years.
- Strengthened Partnerships: Hamas has recently strengthened its ties with Hezbollah and Iran, indicating a possible coordinated effort against Israel.
- Long-Standing Issues: Israel and Hezbollah have a history of conflict, including the 2006 war, and unresolved tensions can easily flare up.
- Strategic Calculations: Both Hezbollah and Israel are currently engaging in limited strikes, assessing each other’s intentions and capabilities. The balance can tip either way depending on these calculations.
The situation is volatile, and it remains to be seen whether Hezbollah will launch an all-out war against Israel or continue with limited strikes, and how Israel would respond in turn.
The entire article can be read at the link https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/11/world/middleeast/israel-lebanon-hezbollah-hamas.html
