Iran-backed Fighters Ready to Join Hezbollah in Potential War

Thousands of fighters from Iran-backed groups in the Middle East are reportedly prepared to join Lebanon’s Hezbollah in a potential full-scale war against Israel if tensions escalate further. According to officials from Iran-backed factions and analysts, the situation along Lebanon’s border with northern Israel has intensified with almost daily exchanges of fire since the start of the conflict between Israel and Hamas in early October.

US Concerns and Warning Against Escalation

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to deploy more troops to the northern border to confront Hezbollah, hinting at a shift from the conflict in Gaza to potential hostilities with Hezbollah. The United States has cautioned against any Israeli offensive into Lebanon that could trigger a wider regional conflict, endangering US forces in the region. Diplomatic efforts are expected to be made to prevent further escalation, with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant scheduled to visit Washington for discussions with top US officials.

Escalating Tensions and Recent Events

The exchange of fire between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified following an Israeli strike that killed one of Hezbollah’s senior commanders, Taleb Abdullah, in south-eastern Lebanon. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched over two hundred rockets into northern Israel, marking one of its most significant attacks since the conflict with Hamas began in October. Israeli officials have issued warnings of a potential military offensive in Lebanon if a negotiated resolution is not reached to push Hezbollah away from the border, raising concerns about the possibility of a wider regional conflict.