DZWatch Exclusive: Israel may have a green light from the United States to escalate military operations in Lebanon, according to sources familiar with the matter. This alleged approval is reportedly contingent on de-escalating the tense situation in the Gaza Strip.
According to reports circulating within informed circles, the Israeli security establishment does not anticipate a significant response from Hezbollah following the recent targeted killing of a senior commander in Beirut’s southern suburbs. This assessment suggests a calculated risk on Israel’s part, potentially emboldened by tacit US support.
The recent developments, including strikes in Beirut and Gaza City, indicate a shift in Israel’s approach to managing escalation levels. Some observers believe these actions are part of a broader, ongoing campaign influenced by political and personal calculations of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Notably, there is skepticism within Israel itself regarding the purely security-driven motives behind the recent escalation. Some officials reportedly believe the government is deliberately maintaining a high level of tension to serve its partisan agenda, particularly as the country approaches a sensitive election period.
The Beirut incident carries significant implications. Firstly, it marks a return to targeting the Lebanese capital. Secondly, the assassination of a high-ranking Hezbollah figure, considered by Israel to be a key leader, signals a willingness to escalate the conflict further, provided the circumstances allow.
A recent strike in Beirut’s southern suburbs, attributed to Israel, targeted a Hezbollah commander and resulted in casualties. While Israel claims a “precision strike”, the incident has raised concerns about a potential widening of the conflict.
Reports from within Israeli military and security circles suggest a state of readiness for further strikes deep inside Lebanon should Hezbollah retaliate, mirroring a similar posture adopted regarding Gaza in recent weeks. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for rapid escalation depending on the reactions of key players.
DZWatch continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as they become available.
