The Daily The Threat of a Wider War in the Middle East
41 snips
Jan 11, 2024 
Eric Schmitt, a national security correspondent for The New York Times, dives into the escalating tensions in the Middle East. He discusses how recent attacks may draw the U.S. and Iran deeper into conflict. The conversation highlights the complex involvement of proxy groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis, and the risks posed by miscalculations in warfare. Schmitt also examines the Biden administration's efforts to manage this precarious situation while balancing international expectations and domestic support for military actions.
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Wider War Concerns
- The Biden administration prioritizes avoiding a wider Middle East war.
- They believe it would be economically disastrous, a security catastrophe, and politically damaging during an election year.
Iran's Proxy Involvement
- Recent events in the Middle East, tied to Iran, heighten concerns about regional war.
- Iran uses proxies in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, increasing instability.
Israel Targets Hamas in Lebanon
- Israel targeted Hamas leadership outside Gaza, including in Lebanon, Hezbollah's territory.
- This action increases risks, given Hezbollah's strength and Iranian backing.