Blinken Alerts G7 to Potential Iran and Hezbollah Strike on Israel

Monday 05 August 2024 - 08:20

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has reportedly warned G7 counterparts that Iran and Hezbollah may launch an attack on Israel within the next 24 to 48 hours. This unconfirmed report, published by US outlet Axios on Monday, comes amid growing concerns of a potential regional conflict in the Middle East.

According to Axios, citing three unnamed sources, Blinken informed G7 foreign ministers during a conference call that an attack could occur as early as Monday. The report suggests that while the US believes both Iran and Hezbollah will retaliate, the exact timing and nature of the attacks remain uncertain.

The warning follows the recent killings of top Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, which have prompted vows of retaliation from both Iran and Hezbollah. Blinken reportedly emphasized US efforts to mitigate the escalation by urging Iran and Hezbollah to limit their attacks and encouraging restraint in any Israeli response. He called on G7 allies to support this initiative through diplomatic channels.

In response to the heightened tensions, the G7, comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, issued a statement expressing "deep concern over the heightened level of tension in the Middle East." The group called for restraint from all parties involved, stressing that "no country or nation stands to gain from a further escalation."

Following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on July 31, the US deployed additional military forces to the Middle East in anticipation of retaliatory strikes. The US maintains that this deployment is purely defensive.

Axios reports that US Central Command chief, General Michael Kurilla, is expected to arrive in Israel on Monday to "finalize preparations" with the Israeli army in preparation for a possible attack.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant issued a stern warning, stating, "If they dare to attack us, they will pay a heavy price."

The ongoing conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, now in its tenth month, has led to regular low-level hostilities between Israel and Iran-aligned groups in the region, including Hezbollah. While it is widely believed that neither side desires an all-out war, the current tensions significantly increase the risk of a larger conflict.

In light of the situation, an increasing number of countries are advising their citizens to leave Lebanon immediately. Following warnings from the US and several European governments, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and France have joined in urging their nationals to depart while commercial flights are still operational.

The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, citing a "highly volatile security context," has strongly advised its citizens against traveling to Lebanon and recommended those already in the country to leave "as soon as possible."

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains on high alert, closely monitoring developments in this volatile region.