Tensions have sharply escalated in the Middle East following the killings of key leaders from Hamas and Hezbollah, intensifying regional conflicts and prompting cautionary measures from various countries, including India.
Hezbollah Commander Fuad Shukr: Israel killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut on Tuesday. This action was stated to be in retaliation for the deadly rocket fire on the annexed Golan Heights the previous week.
#BREAKING: Israeli strikes decimate Palestinian terrorists in a car near the West Bank city of Tulkarm. pic.twitter.com/hRPBPKtTzT
— Israel War Room (@IsraelWarRoom) August 3, 2024
Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh: Shortly after Shukr’s assassination, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in the Iranian capital. These incidents follow a recent killing spree of significant figures that have spiked regional hostilities.
These targeted assassinations are part of a series of major incidents that have inflamed the ongoing Gaza war, which has seen involvement from Iran-backed groups in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.
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India’s Cautionary Measures
India has responded to the escalating tensions by advising its nationals in Israel to stay vigilant and adhere to safety protocols. The Indian Embassy in Beirut has strongly advised against travel to Lebanon and has recommended that Indian nationals leave the country.
Air India Suspensions: In light of the increased danger, Air India has suspended its flights to and from Israel’s Tel Aviv until August 8.
Advisory for Indian Nationals in Israel:
– Indian nationals have been urged to stay vigilant.
– Advised to follow safety protocols due to the escalating regional tensions.
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US President’s Concerns: US President Joe Biden expressed his concern over the rising tensions, noting that the killing of Haniyeh has exacerbated the situation.
Iran and Allied Groups’ Meeting
Sources close to Hezbollah indicated that Iranian officials met in Tehran with representatives of the “axis of resistance” to discuss their next steps. Two potential responses were considered:
- A simultaneous retaliatory response from Iran and its allies.
- A staggered response from each party involved.
Israel’s Stance
Israel, which justified Shukr’s assassination as a response to rocket fire, has warned its adversaries of severe repercussions for any aggression. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is highly prepared for both defensive and offensive scenarios.
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Statement
– Israel is prepared for any scenario, both defensive and offensive.
– Adversaries warned of a high price for aggression.
The assassinations of key leaders from Hamas and Hezbollah have significantly escalated tensions in the Middle East, drawing cautious responses from countries with nationals in the region. The situation remains highly volatile, with potential for further escalations.
