CNN has learned that US officials are expressing serious concerns about a potential full-blown war between Israel and Hezbollah. According to three US officials, there are worries that the Iran-backed militant group could overcome Israel’s air defenses in the north, including the highly esteemed Iron Dome air defense system.
The fears have been relayed to the US by Israel, with Israeli officials indicating a shift of resources from southern Gaza to northern Israel in preparation for a potential offensive against Hezbollah. A senior administration official stated, “We assess that at least some Iron Dome batteries will be overwhelmed.” This concern is amplified if Hezbollah were to launch a large-scale attack using precision guided weapons, which could pose a challenge for the Iron Dome system.
Hezbollah has been amassing precision guided munitions and missiles from Iran for years, a concern repeatedly raised by Israel. Recently, Hezbollah released a video showing what appeared to be a drone striking an Iron Dome battery in northern Israel. Although the IDF denied any damage, Israeli officials have expressed surprise at the sophistication of Hezbollah’s attacks.
US officials have highlighted the need for additional air defense systems and Iron Dome replenishments to support Israel in the event of a full-blown war. As tensions escalate on Israel’s northern border, the risk of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah continues to grow. Hezbollah possesses a vast arsenal of rockets, missiles, and drones, much more extensive and sophisticated than that of Hamas.
US envoy Amos Hochstein has been engaged in negotiations between Israel and Hezbollah, urging both sides to avoid further escalation. However, recent cross-border attacks and rising tensions have heightened concerns about the potential for a widespread conflict. Israeli officials maintain that they have the resources for an offensive against Hezbollah if necessary, despite US officials cautioning against actions that could lead to a broader war.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has warned of an unrestricted fight if war is imposed on Lebanon, with potential attacks reaching as far as the eastern Mediterranean. The prospect of drawing in other regional proxy groups has raised alarms among US officials, particularly regarding the safety of US troops in the Middle East.
The situation remains precarious as Israel prepares for a possible conflict with Hezbollah, with the US closely monitoring the developments and implications of a larger-scale war in the region.
