Analysts warn that the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is escalating, and some of them believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may be trying to expand the conflict in his country in order to maintain his power.
After Israel killed at least one person in an attack on Baalbek, its second attack on eastern Lebanon since October 7th, 100 rockets were reportedly fired from Lebanon into Israel, again prompting strikes by Israeli warplanes targeting various locations in Lebanon.
According to Al Jazeera, the escalation on Monday night that continued on Tuesday could be the basis for further speculation by analysts who believe that Israel could fully focus on the Lebanese front if a truce is established in Gaza.
In the north, the Lebanese group Hezbollah has been fighting the Israeli military in cross-border attacks since Israel began its offensive on Gaza.
“Israel is expanding the area of war little by little, but for now there is no decision for an all-out war,” told Kassem Kassir, an analyst close to Hezbollah.
He stated that Hezbollah cannot withdraw from the conflict before ending the war in Gaza and agreeing on a comprehensive solution.
Israel is demanding that Hezbollah withdraw its forces behind the Litani River, roughly 30 km north of the border, but analysts say that is unlikely to happen.
Increasing pressure on Netanyahu
As the death toll continues to rise in what is now the sixth month of war, pressure is mounting on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Some analysts suggest that Netanyahu wants to keep Israel at war, either in Gaza or with Hezbollah in Lebanon, because that is his best chance to remain in charge of the country.
“Netanyahu’s desire to (keep the country in the war) and declare victory is evidence of a deep internal rift and growing condemnation from the international community,” stated Imad Salamey, an associate professor of political science and international relations at the Lebanese American University in Beirut, N1 writes.
E.Dz.
