Hezbollah vows retaliation for Israel's strike on Iran's consulate in Damascus

As tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East, the recent strike on Iran's consulate in Damascus has been described as a "turning point" by the head of Lebanon's armed group Hezbollah. The strike, which occurred earlier this week, resulted in the death of seven Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps members, including a senior Quds Force commander, Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi. Iran has vowed to retaliate, with Hezbollah expressing support for Iran's right to "punish" Israel.

Israel Braces for Potential Retaliation

In response to the heightened tensions, Israel has taken precautions, cancelling leave for all combat units and mobilising additional troops for air defense units. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has affirmed Israel's readiness to confront its enemies, emphasizing the nation's multi-layered defense strategy. Israeli forces have been warned to anticipate potential attacks, with Gallant stating, "It could be in Damascus and it could be in Beirut."

Iran's Strategic Approach

Iran has thus far refrained from direct involvement in the conflict, instead supporting various attacks on Israeli and U.S. targets through its allies across the region. Diplomats and analysts suggest that Iran's leadership is wary of engaging in a full-scale war that could jeopardize its hold on power. As a result, Iran appears to favor utilizing its proxies to carry out targeted attacks on its adversaries, as opposed to directly engaging in open conflict.

Escalating Conflict in Lebanon

Meanwhile, Hezbollah, Amal, and Palestinian groups based in Lebanon have been engaged in clashes with Israel along Lebanon's southern border since October 8. Recent reports indicate that an Israeli strike in the town of Marjayoun resulted in the deaths of three Amal fighters. Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah has affirmed the group's readiness to confront Israel, stating that they still possess unused weapons and forces.