New Delhi: The conflict between Israel and Iran continues to escalate, with both sides ramping up airstrikes and attacks. Israel has intensified its bombing campaign, focusing on Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon and other key locations. Amid the growing tension, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported intercepting a drone near the Red Sea, which was allegedly headed toward Israeli territory. Iran-backed Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility for an attack on the Israeli city of Eilat, though the IDF confirmed the drone did not breach Israeli airspace.
Hezbollah and Lebanon in the Crosshairs as Clashes Intensify
Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group, has faced heavy Israeli bombardment, particularly in Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a stark warning, urged the people of Lebanon to rise against Hezbollah or face consequences similar to those witnessed in Gaza. “Destruction and suffering like Gaza” would befall Lebanon, Netanyahu warned. His statement has drawn international concern, with White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre responding that the United States does not support an expansion of the conflict into Lebanon and hopes to avoid further devastation.
Clashes on the West Bank: Israeli Raids and Local Resistance
Meanwhile, the conflict has spilled over into the West Bank, where fierce clashes erupted during Israeli military raids. In the past several hours, Israeli forces launched operations in the occupied West Bank, leading to violent confrontations. Local media have reported that these raids are part of Israel’s broader effort to suppress resistance movements within Palestinian territories. The situation remains volatile, with escalating violence across multiple fronts.
Netanyahu and Biden’s First Talk in 50 Days: Tensions Behind the Scenes
In a notable diplomatic development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held his first phone conversation in almost 50 days with US President Joe Biden on Wednesday. The two leaders discussed Israel’s ongoing operations and its response to a recent Iranian ballistic missile attack. According to reports, President Biden has been increasingly frustrated with Netanyahu’s handling of the war in Gaza, as well as the growing hostilities in Lebanon, expressing concern over the absence of a coherent strategy to end the conflict. The conversation marks a critical moment as the US seeks to navigate its complex alliance with Israel while pushing for a resolution to the widening war.
A War Without End in Sight?
As the Israel-Iran war drags on, the situation is becoming more complex, involving multiple actors across the region. With Hezbollah embroiled in the conflict, tensions rising in Lebanon, and the West Bank seeing heightened violence, the prospects for peace remain dim. While Israel presses ahead with its military strategy, the US and other international players are urging caution to prevent further regional destabilization.
