Middle East, 24 June 2024– The situation in the Middle East is intensifying as rhetoric and threats escalate between Israel and Lebanon, following recent devastating events in the Gaza Strip. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a potential all-out war against Hezbollah in Lebanon, raising alarms across the region.

Netanyahu, often dubbed the "butcher" of the Middle East by his critics, declared the campaign against Hamas in Gaza nearing its end. He emphasized that the end of the Gaza conflict does not signify the end of Israel’s military operations, hinting at a potential redeployment of troops to the Lebanese border. This announcement has sparked widespread tension throughout the Middle East.

In a bold statement on Friday, Iran warned that Hezbollah is fully capable of defending itself and Lebanon, and any attempt by Israel to escalate the conflict would result in Israel being the "ultimate loser." Iran emphasized that any rash decisions by Israel could plunge the region into a new, broader war.

Responding to Netanyahu’s threats, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah stated on Saturday that his group is not intimidated by Israel's warnings. He assured that Hezbollah fighters are ready to retaliate, and any Israeli aggression would be met with fierce resistance. Nasrallah warned that if Israel initiates a full-scale war, Hezbollah would not hesitate to launch attacks on Tel Aviv, threatening to wipe Israel off the map.

Nasrallah also addressed Cyprus, cautioning that if it allows Israel to use its airspace, it would also face repercussions. The President of Cyprus, Nicos Christodoulidis, quickly responded, stressing that Cyprus does not wish to engage in any conflict with Lebanon and would not permit Israel to use its airspace for military operations.

In a further escalation, Hezbollah released footage showing sensitive Israeli targets, with threats of missile strikes, causing concern in the United States and among other international observers. Lebanon's Grand Shia Mufti Sheikh Ahmad Kabalan added to the tension by warning that Hezbollah is prepared to launch 500,000 missiles at Israel if war begins, claiming that Israel would be thrown back by 70 years.

Kabalan highlighted the significant arsenal and advanced technology at Hezbollah’s disposal, contrasting it with Israel's ongoing struggle to subdue Hamas in Gaza. He asserted that any effort to heighten regional tensions would ultimately backfire on Israel, not serving its interests but rather strengthening the Resistance Front’s resolve to protect Lebanon’s sovereignty.

The escalating war of words and threats between Israel and Lebanon indicates a precarious situation, with both sides preparing for potential military conflict. The international community remains on high alert, urging diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and seeking a peaceful resolution to the mounting tensions.