The Middle East is facing devastating consequences of the conflict, including the deaths of civilians in Gaza, Lebanon, and Israel, and the increasing risk of a wider regional war. Today, we are exploring the political motivations behind the actions of the various actors, with particular attention paid to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his policies towards Iran.



The Middle East finds itself teetering on the precipice of a regional war, with the latest escalation marked by Iran’s unprecedented ballistic missile attack on Israel. This act of aggression, launched in retaliation for Israel’s targeted killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and its military operations in Lebanon, has sent shockwaves through the region and beyond.



This briefing reviews key themes and facts from provided French and English news sources highlighting the escalating tensions in the Middle East with a focus on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Hezbollah’s involvement, and Iran’s retaliatory actions.



This briefing reviews key themes and facts from provided French and English news sources highlighting the escalating tensions in the Middle East with a focus on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Hezbollah’s involvement, and Iran’s retaliatory actions.



The Cycle of Violence:



The conflict began last year on October 7th when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 hostage34. Israel responded with a devastating offensive in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 41,000 Palestinians, according to Palestinian health authorities.



The situation escalated further when Israel, emboldened by its successes against Hezbollah, launched a ground incursion into southern Lebanon, targeting the group’s infrastructure. This operation, the first of its kind since 2006, has resulted in casualties on both sides, with eight Israeli soldiers confirmed killed in clashes with Hezbollah fighters.



Iran’s missile attack, which involved over 180 ballistic missiles, represents a significant escalation and has raised fears of a wider conflict. While Israel suffered no reported casualties from the missile strikes, the attack has heightened tensions and fears in the region.



Key Players and Perspectives:



● Israel: Israel has vowed to retaliate for Iran’s attack and has warned of severe consequences. The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, sees the conflict as an existential one and is determined to defend itself against what it perceives as an Iranian threat.



Iran: Iran has framed its missile attack as a decisive response to Israel’s aggression and has warned Israel against further escalation. The country’s leadership, under Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, sees Israel’s actions as a threat to its regional interests and is determined to support its allies, including Hezbollah.



Hezbollah: The Lebanese militant group, backed by Iran, has vowed to continue its resistance against Israel. The group has suffered significant losses, including the death of its leader, but remains a potent force in Lebanon.



Persian Gulf States: While supporting the Palestinian cause, Gulf states are wary of further Israeli escalation and fear the potential consequences of a wider conflict. They are urging restraint and calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as well as between Israel and Hezbollah.



The current situation is extremely volatile, and the risk of a full-blown regional war is very real. The cycle of violence, fueled by deep-seated animosity and mistrust,