Tehran, 23 June 2024 – Iran has issued a stark warning, asserting that an all-out war with Hezbollah would lead to Israel's "final defeat." This statement comes amid escalating tensions and fears of a major Israeli attack on Lebanon. The warning was reported by Qatar-based media outlet Al-Jazeera on Friday.

In a post on social media, Iran's mission to the United Nations cautioned that any rash decision by Israel to preserve its regime could plunge the region into a new conflict. The statement suggested that such a war would devastate infrastructure in Lebanon and Israeli-occupied territories from 1948.

"Undoubtedly, this war will be the final defeat of the Zionist regime. The Lebanese resistance movement, Hezbollah, has the power to defend itself and Lebanon – perhaps the time has come for this illegitimate regime to self-destruct," the post read.

In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz issued a stern threat to Iran-backed Hezbollah, declaring that Israel would soon make necessary decisions to counter the group. Katz emphasized the need for unconditional support from the free world in Israel's struggle against Iran and extremist Islamic leadership.

Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, has also escalated the rhetoric, warning that if Israel's military intervenes in Lebanon, Hezbollah will retaliate with rocket and drone strikes across Israel. Since the onset of the Gaza conflict on October 7, Hezbollah has been actively engaging Israeli military bases in northern Israel, supported by Palestinian groups.

The ongoing clashes between Hezbollah and Israel have caused significant displacement along the Lebanon-Israel border. Daily skirmishes and retaliatory bombings have forced tens of thousands of people from their homes in the border region, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

The international community is closely watching these developments, concerned about the potential for a broader regional conflict. The prospect of a full-scale war involving Hezbollah and Israel raises significant geopolitical and security implications for the Middle East and beyond.

As tensions remain high, both sides appear to be preparing for further escalations, with Iran firmly backing Hezbollah and Israel reinforcing its military stance. The situation continues to be volatile, with the potential for dramatic developments in the coming days.