Hezbollah Warns of Wider Conflict as Israel-Hamas War Escalates

In a highly anticipated speech, Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah issued a warning on Friday, indicating that a wider conflict in the Middle East was a realistic possibility. Nasrallah’s remarks came amidst the ongoing Israel–Hamas war, the deadliest escalation since the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel. As tensions continue to rise, Nasrallah’s speech was expected to shed light on whether Hezbollah would engage in a full-fledged war against Israel.

Hezbollah, a formidable military force with backing from Iran, has been actively engaging Israeli forces along the Lebanon-Israel border. Nasrallah emphasized that Hezbollah’s increasing actions have forced Israel to divert its attention from the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, keeping its forces closer to the Lebanese border. He held the United States responsible for the war in Gaza and highlighted the high civilian death toll. Nasrallah stressed the urgency of de-escalating the situation in Gaza to prevent a potential regional war.

Nasrallah expressed gratitude towards groups in Yemen and Iraq, referring to them as part of the “Axis of Resistance.” He specifically thanked the Shi'ite Muslim Iraqi militias, which have been targeting U.S. forces in Syria and Iraq. Additionally, he acknowledged Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who have joined the conflict by launching drone attacks against Israel.

The United Arab Emirates echoed concerns about the Israel-Hamas war, warning of a potential regional spillover. They emphasized their relentless efforts to secure a humanitarian ceasefire and prevent further escalation in the region.