Title: Iran-Backed Hamas and Hezbollah Coordinate in Fighting Against Israel
Subtitle: Concerns Grow Over Escalation and Possibility of Hezbollah’s Involvement
Introduction:
In a recent interview, a senior Hamas representative in Lebanon revealed that Hamas and its ally Hezbollah are closely coordinating their actions against Israel. The statement comes at a time when tensions in the region are running high, and Iran has issued warnings of “preemptive action” against Israel. The growing coordination between the two militant groups raises serious concerns about the potential spillover of the conflict onto multiple fronts and the possibility of a major conflict engulfing Lebanon.
Cooperation between Hamas and Hezbollah:
Ahmed Abdul-Hadi, the head of Hamas’ political bureau in Beirut, acknowledged that while Hamas did not provide advance notice of its attacks against Israel on October 7, there is an ongoing cooperation between the two groups. Abdul-Hadi emphasized that Hezbollah is now prepared for a major war against Israel in the north, while Hamas aims to counter Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans for Gaza. The remarks highlight the close relations between the Iran-backed militant groups and raise worries about a potential two-front conflict.
Potential Triggers for Hezbollah’s Involvement:
Abdul-Hadi specified that an Israeli ground offensive in Gaza could be a key trigger for Hezbollah’s active involvement in the conflict. He stated that Hezbollah would not pay attention to threats or warnings and would launch a full-scale attack on Israel if it crosses certain lines. Israeli military spokesman Richard Hecht has cautioned against making assumptions, stating that the next step is still undisclosed. However, tensions continue to rise, with Israel positioning its armor near Gaza.
Efforts to Prevent Escalation:
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been leading an intense Western diplomatic effort to prevent the conflict spilling over. President Joe Biden is set to meet with Arab leaders in Jordan during his visit to Israel, showing solidarity after the Hamas attack. However, the situation remains precarious, with rocket and artillery skirmishes intensifying along the Lebanese border and warnings from Iran and Hezbollah of possible “preemptive” action against Israel.
Claims and Counterclaims:
During the interview, Abdul-Hadi remained uncompromising, denying allegations that Hamas killed any civilians during the attack on southern Israel. He dismissed such claims as Israeli propaganda and argued that it was a diversion from Israeli actions in Gaza. However, there have been inconsistencies in explanations from Hamas officials regarding civilian casualties. Meanwhile, Abdul-Hadi stated that negotiations regarding Israeli captives are still possible but would require reciprocation from Israel in terms of ceasing attacks on Gaza and lifting the siege.
Closing Remarks:
Abdul-Hadi emphasized that the October 7 attack was exclusively a Palestinian operation led by Hamas. Despite the close cooperation with Hezbollah, he asserted that the planning and execution were done solely by Hamas. Meanwhile, concerns are mounting over the potential involvement of Hezbollah in the conflict, as the region teeters on the brink of a major escalation. International actors are intensifying their efforts to prevent further deterioration and prevent Lebanon from being dragged into the conflict. However, the situation remains highly volatile, with Iran warning that no one can stop them if Israel continues its bombing of Gaza.