Dexter Filkins, New Yorker staff writer, discusses the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, highlighting the risks of an all-out war involving Iran and the U.S. He compares Hezbollah and Hamas, addresses the potential ceasefire impact, and analyzes the threats posed by Hezbollah towards Israel.
Hezbollah poses a greater threat to Israel than Hamas due to its substantial missile arsenal and precision capabilities.
The escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah raises the risk of a catastrophic war involving Iran and the US.
Deep dives
Key Points About Hezbollah and Hamas
Hezbollah and Hamas want to create Islamist states, backed by Iran, and eliminate Israel. Hezbollah operates in Lebanon, while Hamas is based in Gaza. Both groups have different religious affiliations, backing, and geopolitical locations. The escalating conflict between them and Israel poses serious threats, with Hezbollah having significant missile capabilities.
Threat Posed by Hezbollah to Israel
Hezbollah, with over 150,000 missiles and rockets, presents a far greater threat to Israel than Hamas. Their precision-guided long-range missiles can target vital Israeli infrastructure. The potential war with Hezbollah is perceived as more catastrophic than battles with Hamas.
Escalation of Violence Between Israel and Hezbollah
Israel and Hezbollah are escalating attacks with the fear of a wider war looming. Both sides intensify aggression, leading to increased violence along the border. The risk of the conflict spiraling out of control into a catastrophic war involving Iran and the US is concerning.
Tensions in Lebanon's Southern Border
On Lebanon's dangerous southern border with Israel, witness accounts reveal the devastation caused by Israeli attacks. Maronite Christian villages spared from Israeli strikes contrast with areas heavily targeted. Evidence of white phosphorus usage implicates Israel. Proxy conflicts and power struggles further complicate the region's instability.
Hezbollah, the militant group based in Lebanon, shares Hamas' goal of destroying the state of Israel. We'll talk with New Yorker staff writer Dexter Filkins, about his reporting trip to both sides of the Lebanese/Israeli border. Israel and Hezbollah have escalated their shelling and bombing attacks on each other. Filkins says that's leading to fears of an all-out war that would devastate both sides, and could draw in Iran and the U.S.