What's happened
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated the group retains the right to respond to Israel's killing of top commander Haytham Ali Tabatabai, warning of potential renewed conflict. Qassem called for Lebanon to prepare a defense plan amid ongoing tensions and Israeli strikes, while expressing hope for peace during Pope Leo's visit.
What's behind the headline?
Hezbollah's recent rhetoric and actions reveal a calculated strategy to maintain deterrence while avoiding full-scale war. The group’s leader, Naim Qassem, emphasizes their right to respond and calls for Lebanon to prepare a defense plan, signaling readiness for escalation. The killing of Tabatabai, a key military figure, underscores Israel's focus on degrading Hezbollah's leadership and rearming efforts. This escalation suggests that Hezbollah aims to reassert its military strength and challenge the ceasefire's effectiveness, potentially leading to a cycle of retaliations. The international context, including US backing and diplomatic efforts, indicates that both sides are aware of the risks but remain entrenched in their positions. The upcoming visit of Pope Leo adds a diplomatic layer, but the likelihood of peace remains uncertain as tensions spike. The next few weeks will be critical in determining whether de-escalation or further conflict will dominate the region.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that Hezbollah's leader, Naim Qassem, explicitly stated the group's right to respond to Israel's recent killing of Haytham Ali Tabatabai, warning of possible war and calling for Lebanon to prepare a defense plan. The Times of Israel highlights that Israel's targeted killing of Tabatabai, a senior Hezbollah commander, was part of ongoing efforts to prevent Hezbollah rearming and to degrade its capabilities. Al Jazeera emphasizes Hezbollah's stance that it will determine the timing of any retaliation, and notes the group's continued refusal to disarm as long as Israel maintains strikes and occupation. These contrasting perspectives underscore the ongoing tension: Hezbollah frames its actions as defensive and justified, while Israel views its strikes as necessary to prevent Hezbollah's rearmament and future threats.
How we got here
Since the 2024 ceasefire that ended over a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, the group has been accused of rearming and violating the truce. Israel has escalated strikes on southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah's infrastructure and leadership, citing violations of the ceasefire terms. The killing of Hezbollah's top military commander, Tabatabai, by Israel on November 23, 2025, has intensified fears of renewed war. Hezbollah has publicly maintained its right to respond and has called for Lebanon to prepare a national defense plan, while also hoping that Pope Leo's upcoming visit could help bring peace.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s happening with Hezbollah and Israel right now?
Tensions between Hezbollah and Israel are escalating following recent military actions and threats. With Hezbollah warning of possible retaliation after the killing of a top commander, many are wondering what this means for regional stability. Could this lead to a wider conflict? Here’s what you need to know about the current situation, regional responses, and what might happen next.
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What is the current situation between Hezbollah and Israel after the killing of their top commander?
Recent tensions in the Middle East have escalated following Israel's targeted killing of Hezbollah's top military leader. This has raised fears of renewed conflict and regional instability. Many are wondering what led to this escalation, what it means for Lebanon and Israel, and whether peace efforts, like Pope Leo XIV's upcoming visit, can influence the situation. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this volatile situation.
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How Are Regional Powers Reacting to Lebanon and Israel Tensions?
The ongoing conflict between Lebanon and Israel has drawn varied reactions from regional powers, each influencing the stability of the Middle East. Countries like Iran, Syria, and Egypt are closely watching and responding in ways that could escalate or de-escalate the situation. Understanding these reactions helps clarify the broader regional dynamics and potential future developments. Below, we explore key questions about how these powers are involved and what it means for regional stability.
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What Are the Latest Developments in Middle East Conflicts?
Recent events in the Middle East have escalated tensions significantly, with key players like Hezbollah and Israel at the center of the conflict. Understanding the latest clashes, regional responses, and potential global impacts is crucial. Below, we answer the most common questions about these developments to keep you informed and prepared for what’s next.
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What’s Next in the Rising Tensions Between Hezbollah and Israel?
Recent events have heightened fears of conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, especially after Israel's targeted killing of Hezbollah's top commander. Many are wondering what this means for the region’s stability and whether escalation is imminent. Below, we answer key questions about the current situation, potential outcomes, and what might influence future developments.
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What’s Happening Between Hezbollah and Israel Right Now?
Recent tensions in the Middle East have escalated following the killing of Hezbollah’s top commander by Israel. This has raised fears of renewed conflict and questions about what’s driving the current hostilities. In this page, we’ll explore the latest events, Hezbollah’s concerns, and what might happen next. If you’re wondering about the current situation and what it means for the region, keep reading for clear answers to your most pressing questions.
More on these topics
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Hezbollah is a Shia Islamist political party and militant group based in Lebanon. Hezbollah's paramilitary wing is the Jihad Council, and its political wing is the Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc party in the Lebanese parliament.
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Naim Qassem is a Shia Lebanese cleric and politician, who was the second-in-command of Hezbollah with the title of deputy secretary-general.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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Lebanon, officially known as the Lebanese Republic, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered by Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south, while Cyprus lies west across the Mediterranean Sea.