What's happened
Lebanese officials warn of potential Israeli strikes on civilian infrastructure amid escalating tensions with Hezbollah and Iran-backed groups. The US orders embassy personnel to leave Beirut as fears of conflict grow, with Israel warning of possible strikes if Hezbollah intervenes. The situation remains highly volatile today, February 24, 2026.
What's behind the headline?
The current escalation signals a high risk of wider conflict in the Middle East. Israel's threats to target Lebanese infrastructure, including the airport, indicate a willingness to escalate if Hezbollah responds. Lebanon's government and military are caught between diplomatic pressure and military realities, with Iran's influence through Hezbollah and the IRGC's involvement intensifying the risk. The US's withdrawal of embassy staff underscores the seriousness of the threat. This situation will likely lead to further military exchanges, with the potential for regional destabilization. The US and Iran's ongoing nuclear talks could influence the trajectory, but the current military buildup suggests a high likelihood of conflict escalation in the coming weeks.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel reports that Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi confirmed fears of Israeli strikes on strategic infrastructure, including the airport, amid warnings of escalation. The New Arab highlights the US military buildup and diplomatic efforts to prevent Lebanese civilian infrastructure from being targeted, emphasizing Lebanon's fears of repercussions from Iran-backed groups. AP News notes that US officials have ordered non-essential personnel to leave Beirut, reflecting heightened tensions. Reuters adds that Israel has conducted strikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, and Iran's influence through the IRGC is increasing, with ongoing nuclear talks in Geneva. These contrasting reports underscore the complex regional dynamics and the high stakes of the current escalation.
How we got here
Recent clashes and military strikes have heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel accuses Hezbollah of re-arming and rebuilding forces after a 2024 war, while Lebanon's government seeks disarmament. The US has increased military presence in the region amid fears of a broader conflict involving Iran and its proxies, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to prevent escalation.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Are Tensions Rising in Lebanon and the Middle East Right Now?
Recent developments in the Middle East have heightened fears of conflict, especially involving Lebanon, Israel, and Iran. With military movements, diplomatic strains, and threats to civilian infrastructure, many are asking what’s really happening and what could happen next. Below, we explore the key questions about this tense situation and what it means for the region and beyond.
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Why Is the US Increasing Military Presence in the Middle East?
The US has recently ramped up its military activities in the Middle East amid rising tensions in the region. Many wonder what the US aims to achieve with this buildup and what it means for regional stability. Below, we explore the reasons behind this military increase, potential consequences, and how local countries are reacting to these developments.
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How Do US-Iran Tensions Impact Global Security?
Recent escalations between the US and Iran have raised concerns about regional stability and the potential for wider conflicts. As military movements and diplomatic tensions increase, many wonder what this means for global security. Below, we explore key questions about the current situation, its implications for the Middle East, and what risks civilians face in affected areas.
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What’s Next for Middle East Stability? Key Questions Answered
The Middle East is currently experiencing heightened tensions, with fears of escalation involving Lebanon, Israel, Iran, and the US. As military movements and diplomatic efforts unfold, many are wondering what the future holds for regional stability. Below, we explore the most pressing questions about this volatile situation and what it could mean for global security and markets.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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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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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.
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Iran, also called Persia, and officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered to the northwest by Armenia and Azerbaijan, to the north by the Caspian Sea, to the northeast by Turkmenistan, to the east by Afghanistan a
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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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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.