Israeli officials warn of risk of escalation in the Middle East — Jerusalem Post
In Israel, security officials are assessing the risk of a broader regional escalation in the Middle East due to simultaneous tensions involving Iran, the Yemeni Houthis, Lebanon, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. The Jerusalem Post reported this, citing Israeli officials. In their assessment, a deterioration of the situation on one front could affect the entire region.
Iran and allied groups
Israeli officials believe that US President Donald Trump is increasing pressure on Tehran, including through threats and economic sanctions, in order to demonstrate the seriousness of his intentions before a possible return to negotiations. According to the outlet, mediators between Washington and Tehran have not yet achieved positive results.
According to Israeli sources, Iran continues producing surface-to-surface missiles and drones and is preparing for a possible conflict on several fronts. Israel's defense establishment is particularly concerned about the possible involvement of Tehran-backed groups: Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and pro-Iranian Shiite formations in Iraq.
Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Gaza
According to Israeli officials, Saudi Arabia requested immediate assistance from the United States after a large-scale Houthi attack on Riyadh, Mecca and Saudi Aramco facilities, as well as a ground advance toward the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The Jerusalem Post claims that after consultations, Trump decided not to strike the Houthis, instead offering intelligence support or assistance with weapons systems.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Hezbollah, according to the Israeli assessment, is currently refraining from escalation, but with Iran's support is expanding its military capabilities, including those related to drones. The outlet also reports almost daily air and ground strikes against the group's targets in southern Lebanon.
Negotiations between the Peace Council and Hamas on disarmament in the Gaza Strip and transferring control to a third party have reached a deadlock. Israel opposes arrangements under which Hamas would retain weapons and legitimate status in Gaza. Heightened readiness is being maintained along the so-called Yellow Line due to the risk of attacks by Hamas or other groups.
Tensions in the West Bank
Israeli security forces are most concerned about the situation in the West Bank and the Jordan Valley. Tensions there are being intensified by friction between the Israeli and Palestinian populations, as well as nationalist-motivated crimes. Israel has reinforced this sector with battalions and additional units to protect settlements and main roads.
Officials are also considering a scenario in which, following the possible death of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, a struggle over succession to power could turn violent. At the same time, senior officials of Israel's Central Command said they currently see no signs of such an armed development.
