PM Netanyahu warns of imminent ‘multi-front war’ with Iran; US and allies pledge to defend Israel

This escalation follows nearly 10 months of conflict in Gaza and the recent assassinations of key Hezbollah and Hamas leaders, which Iran attributes to Israel and the US.

PM Netanyahu has stated, “Israel is prepared for any scenario.”

In a bid to de-escalate the crisis, Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi visited Iran, expressing a desire to end the escalation. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has bolstered its military presence in the region.

White House deputy national security adviser Jon Finer told ABC, “We are doing everything possible to ensure that this situation does not escalate further.”

Israel is on high alert, preparing for potential attacks by readying bomb shelters and recalling the massive Iranian military response in April, which came after Israel killed two Iranian generals.

Israel successfully defended itself against most drones and missiles during that incident.

Meanwhile, a recent stabbing attack near Tel Aviv claimed the lives of two elderly individuals, a woman in her 70s and an 80-year-old man. The attacker, identified as a Palestinian militant, was apprehended by police.

Israeli airstrikes on two schools in Gaza City have left a trail of devastation, claiming at least 25 lives and injuring 19 others. The Israeli military claims the strikes targeted Hamas command centers, but for local residents, the reality remains stark.

As Yusuf Al-Mashharawi describes, “There is no equipment to recover the injured. Rescuers are digging with their hands.” The lack of resources and infrastructure is exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, making rescue efforts even more challenging.”

Further Israeli strikes caused additional casualties, including four deaths in a tent camp in Deir al-Balah and at least eight deaths in a northern Gaza house.

Palestinian militants fired projectiles at Israeli communities, prompting evacuation orders in parts of Khan Younis.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated following the October 7 attack by Hamas, which resulted in significant loss of life and the capture of hundreds of hostages.

Israel’s subsequent response has led to a substantial humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with over 39,000 Palestinian fatalities and widespread destruction and displacement affecting the region’s 2.3 million population.

Meanwhile, tensions along the Lebanon border have intensified, with ongoing exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel, including a recent Israeli strike that critically injured two individuals.

Hezbollah claims its actions aim to alleviate pressure on Hamas.

The situation has prompted several countries, including the US, to advise their citizens to evacuate Lebanon, particularly after the recent assassination of a senior commander.

(with imputes from AP)