Israel Prepares Lebanon Offensive Amid US-Iran Tensions

The Israeli military is updating operational plans and preparing positions along the Lebanese border for a potential new offensive. This mobilization follows reports that Donald Trump is considering coordinated attacks on Iran with Israel. While the Israeli security establishment awaits a U.S. decision on resuming operations against Tehran, internal friction has emerged within the Israeli government. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz are reportedly pushing for military action to overthrow the Iranian government, while Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has clashed with them over these goals. Some U.S. officials reportedly prefer a more limited operation designed to force Iran into negotiations.

In Lebanon, residents are stocking up on food, fuel, and medication in anticipation of renewed conflict. Tensions are heightened by accusations from Israeli officials that the Lebanese army failed to meet obligations under a U.S.-brokered framework agreement signed in June, which aimed to establish pilot zones and facilitate Israeli military withdrawal. The Lebanese army denies these claims.

Iran has warned it will retaliate against regional targets if attacked by the U.S. and Israel. This instability coincides with severe economic distress in Lebanon, where the World Bank projects inflation to reach 17.5 percent, a factor analysts warn could trigger social unrest and sectarian tensions.