Background of Potential Conflict

The frictions between Israel and Hezbollah have heightened fears of an all-out war, seen as probably stemming from Israel’s conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. A war could arrive with unprecedented destruction for both parties, with no evident victor in sight.

Reflection on the 2006 Lebanon War

In 2006, their last conflict broke out after Hezbollah captured two Israeli soldiers, prompting an intense Israeli military response, which concluded without conclusively eliminating Hezbollah’s capabilities.

Probability of War & International Concern

Occurring amidst recent skirmishes, a new war would have critical consequences, accentuated by warnings from international leaders like the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. A webinar of shuttle diplomacy aims to limit escalation.

Military and Domestic Preparedness

While both sides have bolstered their capabilities since their past confrontation, Lebanon’s socio-economic fragility and Israel’s high economic costs of recent Gaza conflict raise their stakes directly affecting their cities’ and citizens’ resilience.

Potential War Scenario Unfold

If battle stars, the extent could reach various fronts, involving multiple Iranian proxy groups and could potentially engage the U.S deeper. Hezbollah’s significant rocket arsenal and Israel’s dense defense systems forecast a harrowing scenario including widespread infrastructure damages and substantial casualties.

Impact on Civilians and Infrastructure

Consequences on the human landscape could unfurl vast displacement on the Lebanese side, infrastructural damage disrupting normal life, and civilians caught between military tactical targets both in Lebanon and Israel.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.