A Defense of Democracy: U.S. Engagement in Global Conflicts

In the past few days, Israel has waged intense air raids in Lebanon, killing more than 600 people, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.

Ben Hubbard, the Istanbul bureau chief for The Times, explains the origins of the spiraling conflict between Israel and its regional adversary Hezbollah.

Guest: Ben Hubbard, the Istanbul bureau chief for The New York Times.

Background reading: 

• Israel’s strikes on Lebanon are some of the deadliest in decades. Here is what we know about the bombardment.
• As Lebanon reels from Israeli attacks, the future is murky for a wounded Hezbollah.

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