The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, now nearing its tenth month, has led to increasing violence across the region. The conflict’s effects are acutely felt at the Israel-Lebanon border, where deadly cross-border exchanges between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters have intensified.
As tensions rise, foreign nationals are being urged to leave Lebanon, a potential frontline in a broader regional conflict. This comes as Iran and its allies prepare their responses to recent high-profile killings attributed to Israel.
Diplomats are working to prevent further escalation, with French President Emmanuel Macron and Jordanian King Abdullah II emphasizing the need to avoid regional military conflict. Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has warned of severe consequences if Hezbollah or its allies attack Israel.
The violence has continued, with an Israeli strike hitting two schools in Gaza City and killing at least 30 people. This incident is part of a pattern of escalating attacks, including recent Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon and rocket fire from Hezbollah.
The cross-border violence has resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating that around 547 people have been killed in Lebanon, including both fighters and civilians. In response, countries like Saudi Arabia and France have advised their citizens to leave Lebanon immediately, citing the highly volatile security situation.
Tensions have also increased following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah’s military chief Fuad Shukr, with Iran and its allies vowing retaliation. The U.S. is deploying additional military resources to the region to help manage the crisis, while efforts to negotiate a ceasefire continue.
The International Crisis Group warns that the region faces its greatest peril in years, stressing the urgent need for a ceasefire to reduce tensions.