Escalation in Middle East: Israeli Military Plans Retaliation Amid Regional Tensions

The Israeli military is intensifying its operations on various fronts as the first anniversary of the 7 October attacks approaches. This includes preparing for what it describes as a ‘significant and serious’ retaliation against Iran amidst ongoing tensions. Reports indicate a potential Israeli military response following alleged attacks by Iran on Israel. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said, under anonymity, that they are planning a response to what they deem an ‘unprecedented and unlawful’ Iranian attack on Israeli civilians.

In parallel, French President Emmanuel Macron has called for an international embargo on arms deliveries to prevent their use against Gaza. He emphasized the necessity of returning to a political solution, according to a statement broadcasted by France Inter. Macron also clarified that France is not supplying arms to Israel.

As the situation escalates, U.S. President Joe Biden has cautioned against an Israeli strike on Iranian oil facilities. In a briefing, he suggested considering alternatives, noting that Washington generally opposes a strike on Iran’s nuclear program.

Simultaneously, speculation is rife about the alleged death of Hashem Safieddine, a key Hezbollah figure, in a recent strike in Beirut‘s southern suburbs. According to Lebanese security sources, Safieddine has been unreachable since Friday, with assessments indicating he was killed alongside aides and Iranian advisers.

The military developments in Lebanon come as Israel prepares to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the devastating Hamas attacks on 7 October, which initiated the current conflict in Gaza. President Isaac Herzog is scheduled to lead a memorial service in Sderot, amid fears of renewed attacks.

In Gaza, the IDF announced plans to act ‘with great force’ against Hamas, ordering evacuations in areas including Nuseirat and Bureij. Operations are also intensifying in southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah has fired rockets into northern Israel, resulting in casualties.

This surge in violence has transformed periodic border exchanges into a wider conflict, with Israeli strikes on Hezbollah strongholds across Lebanon. For the first time in the current escalation, an Israeli airstrike was reported in northern Tripoli, allegedly killing a Hamas commander and his family.

Amid these developments, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated calls for ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon. He expressed hope for successful consultations and initiatives aimed at de-escalating the crisis.