In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Israel has reportedly shifted from a stance of deterrence to an offensive footing, as evidenced by recent air strikes in Lebanon and Yemen.
The strike in Beirut’s Cola area marks a departure from Israel’s previous focus on targeting senior Hezbollah figures in the southern suburb of Dahiya. The attack, which claimed the lives of at least three people, underscores the possibility of an expanding conflict in the region.
Meanwhile, Israeli military action in the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah has further heightened fears of a widening confrontation. The city, controlled by Iran-backed Houthi fighters, was reportedly hit by air strikes that resulted in at least four casualties.
Analyst Daniel Levy, representing the US-Middle East Project and a former Israeli government negotiator, has shared his insights with Al Jazeera on Israel’s strategic shift. The move towards a more offensive approach indicates a potentially volatile situation in the region.
The developments in Lebanon and Yemen come amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as concerns over Iranian influence in the region. The situation underscores the importance of de-escalation efforts and diplomatic solutions to prevent further conflict.
As the international community monitors the situation closely, the potential for a dangerous escalation remains a cause for concern. The implications of Israel’s shift to an offensive posture in the region are significant, and the need for dialogue and de-escalation measures is more critical than ever.
Watch the video by Al Jazeera English
Video “Israel has moved from deterrence to an ‘offensive footing’: Analysis” was uploaded on 09/30/2024 to Youtube Channel Al Jazeera English