Jon Donnison, a correspondent based in Jerusalem, offers crucial insights into the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The discussion unveils the recent military exchanges and explores the complex history fueling these tensions. Donnison highlights the dual role of Hezbollah as a military and political entity, alongside the psychological impact on families at the border. He also addresses shifting U.S. politics and its implications for Israel’s strategy, raising critical questions about the looming threat of war and the possibilities for peace.
Intense military exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated tensions, raising fears of a potential full-scale conflict in the region.
Despite both sides claiming they don't want war, the ongoing violence has severely impacted civilian lives, with thousands displaced along the border.
Deep dives
Recent Escalation in the Middle East
The latest escalation involved intense military exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah, resulting in significant airstrikes and rocket fire. Israeli fighter jets targeted approximately 40 Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, which marked the most extensive attack since the 2006 conflict. In retaliation, Hezbollah fired around 320 rockets towards Israel, claiming their attacks focused on military targets. This confrontation heightened concerns among international observers about the potential for full-scale war in a region already experiencing high tensions.
Hezbollah's Background and Capabilities
Hezbollah, a powerful Shia Muslim organization established in the early 1980s with Iranian support, remains a significant military force in Lebanon. Over the years, it has engaged in various conflicts with Israel, notably contributing to the Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon in 2000 and playing a prominent role in the 2006 war. Currently, Hezbollah is equipped with an extensive arsenal, reportedly possessing around 150,000 rockets and missiles capable of reaching various parts of Israel, posing a considerable threat. Its military capabilities, combined with backing from Iran, make Hezbollah a more formidable opponent compared to other groups in the region.
Impact on Civilians and Regional Stability
The escalation has severely impacted civilian lives on both sides of the Israeli-Lebanese border, with thousands displaced from their homes and many businesses suffering losses. In Israel, around 60,000 residents have evacuated their northern homes since the onset of increased conflict, while Lebanese families face a similar plight amid ongoing exchanges of fire. Despite both sides claiming not to desire a full-scale war, tensions remain high and prepared for escalation, raising concerns about potential casualties impacting the outlook for peace. The international community, particularly the US, continues to exert pressure on both parties to avoid further military conflict and stabilize the situation.
Israel and Hezbollah say they don't want war - but they are both ready for it. In the early hours of Sunday morning, they exchanged heavy fire across the border with Lebanon.
It’s an escalation that had been brewing for weeks, and some feared it could spark a wider, all-out conflict in the region.
So, have we managed to avoid that? Or does the threat of war still loom?
Sumi Somaskanda speaks to our correspondent in Jerusalem, Jon Donnison about how the violence unfolded and where it might lead next.
Our previous episode with all the background on Hezbollah: https://link.chtbl.com/-cXmyJAg
The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Producers: Richard Moran, Alix Pickles and Tse Yin Lee.
Sound Engineer: Mike Regaard.
Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas.
Senior Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith.
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