Iranian President Warns of Regional Conflict Amidst Escalating Tensions with Israel
Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian has raised alarms about the potential for Israel's ongoing air campaign against Hezbollah to escalate into a regional conflict. In an interview with CNN's Fareed Zakaria that aired on September 23, Pezeshkian, who took office following a July election, emphasized the dangers associated with the situation in Lebanon.
Hezbollah, which has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States, has recently engaged in attacks against Israeli territory from southern Lebanon, prompting a retaliatory response from Israel. Pezeshkian stated that Iran provides support to Hezbollah, highlighting that the group is ill-equipped to endure the escalating attacks on its own.
According to Pezeshkian, there exists a significant risk that developments in Lebanon could spiral out of control and engender wider conflict across the region. "The danger does exist that the fire of events that are taking place in Lebanon will expand to the entire region," he warned, pointing to the precarious situation as tensions rise.
Iran has historically been the primary backer of Hezbollah, offering financial and military assistance to the group, which has been involved in numerous confrontations with Israel over the years. Pezeshkian's statements underscore the delicate nature of Middle Eastern geopolitics, where alliances and animosities can lead to swift and unpredictable escalations.
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community watches closely, wary of any developments that could lead to a broader conflict in an already volatile region.
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