Middle East on the Brink of Israel-Iran War, US Bolsters Forces: 10 Key Points
03.08.2024: Tensions in the Middle East are escalating rapidly, bringing Israel and Iran closer to a potential conflict. Indian nationals in Israel have been advised to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols amidst the rising unrest. Here are the latest developments:
- Hezbollah’s Retaliation Expected: Iran’s mission to the United Nations has indicated that Hezbollah, backed by Tehran, is expected to expand its targets and strike deeper into Israel following the death of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr. The group will likely no longer confine its attacks to military targets.
- Casualties in Beirut Strike: An Israeli strike in South Beirut killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr, along with five civilians, including three women and two children, according to Lebanon’s health ministry.
- Hezbollah Commander’s Role: Israel claims Shukr was responsible for rocket attacks that killed 12 youths in the annexed Golan Heights and had been directing Hezbollah’s operations against Israel since the Gaza war began.
- Violation of Established Lines: Iran’s mission stated that the Beirut strike violated previously observed limits between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, which included restricting strikes to border areas and military targets.
- Hamas Leader Killed: Hours after Shukr’s death, Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in a pre-dawn strike in Tehran. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards confirmed the killing, while Israel has not commented.
- US Military Reinforcements: The United States is increasing its military presence in the Middle East, deploying additional warships and fighter jets to prevent potential regional escalation by Iran or its proxies, according to the Pentagon.
- Advisory for Indian Nationals: Indian nationals in Israel have been urged to stay alert and follow safety guidelines. The Indian Embassy in Beirut has also advised against travel to Lebanon and urged citizens to leave the country due to the heightened tensions.
- Yemeni Rebels’ Response: Abdul Malik al-Huthi, leader of Yemen’s Iran-backed Huthi rebels, has vowed a military response to the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, condemning it as a major escalation by Israel.
- Yemeni Rebel Attacks: Since November, Yemeni rebels have been launching drone and missile attacks on Red Sea shipping, claiming to support Palestinians during the Gaza war.
- Casualties from Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Since October of the previous year, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has resulted in at least 542 deaths on the Lebanese side, mostly fighters but also including 114 civilians, according to AFP.