In a significant development, tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated to a level that many experts are referring to as “undeclared war,” despite neither party officially acknowledging the term. The situation stemmed from a series of clashes along the Israel-Lebanon border over the past week, with both sides accusing each other of cross-border attacks.
Israeli military sources reported several incidents of Hezbollah-launched drones entering Israeli airspace, which were subsequently shot down by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Hezbollah, on the other hand, has accused Israel of conducting airstrikes within Lebanon, particularly along the border.
While both Israel and Hezbollah have refrained from using the term “war,” the frequency and intensity of these incidents have raised concerns about a potential full-scale conflict. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has urged both sides to exercise restraint and adhere to the 2006 ceasefire agreement.
The lack of an official declaration of war has been attributed to several factors, including the potential political and diplomatic consequences for both parties. However, the situation remains precarious, with both sides maintaining a strong military presence along the border and regular exchange of fire.
Analysts warn that the stakes are high, given the volatile nature of the region and the potential for the conflict to spill over into other fronts, including Syria where Hezbollah is actively involved. Both Israel and Hezbollah have a history of escalating tensions into full-blown conflicts, the most notable example being the 2006 Lebanon War.
As the situation continues to unfold, regional and global powers are closely monitoring developments and calling for de-escalation. The international community is also urging both parties to prioritize diplomatic channels to resolve disputes peacefully, to prevent the situation from escalating further.