Reserve IDF Lieutenant Colonel Answers Whether Israel-Hezbollah Conflict Could Escalate into War

IDF reserve lieutenant colonel answered whether the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah could escalate into war Angela Figin

The conflict between Israel and the Lebanese Hezbollah has escalated again. In particular, on July 27, the radical group carried out a massive attack on the Israeli city of Majdal Shams. As a result of the shelling, at least 12 people were killed, including children.

The next day, July 28, the Israel Defense Forces carried out a series of air strikes on Hezbollah military targets. Israeli political scientist and IDF reserve lieutenant colonel Arieh Zaiden told Channel 24 that the likelihood of a full-scale escalation is so high.

Will there be an escalation

The tense situation has been ongoing since Hamas militants attacked the IDF, that is, since October 7, 2023. It is sinusoidal – sometimes increasing, sometimes decreasing. In general, the vector is directed upward, but at a very slow pace.

Hezbollah does not want a confrontation with the IDF military, which today has extensive military combat experience. All parts of the Israeli army are prepared and working, – said Zaiden.

Hezbollah leaders see what is happening with Hamas militants and understand that a meeting on the battlefield with the IDF will not be in their favor. Today, the IDF is much better prepared. In addition, Israel's air defense has become more effective. This was demonstrated by the large-scale attack by Iran on the night of April 13.

Therefore, from Hezbollah's point of view, there is no point in moving to a full escalation now. In addition, there is a third player – the United States, which is not interested in escalating the conflict, the reserve lieutenant colonel assured Isaac.

He added that all these components give a single answer that there will be no escalation.