The United States has raised alarms over indications that Iran is preparing to launch a missile attack on Israel "imminently," according to a senior White House official.
The revelation comes as Israel deepens its military operations across its northern border, targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.
Despite these concerns, Israel’s military has stated that it has not yet identified any direct aerial threats originating from Iran. Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson Daniel Hagari affirmed that while the situation is tense, there has been no confirmed launch from Iranian territory at this time.
The Israeli incursion into Lebanon, described by the IDF as a “limited, localised, and targeted” ground operation, follows a series of escalating clashes with Hezbollah militants. Early on Tuesday, an Israeli security official informed the BBC that there had been “no clashes” yet between ground forces.
However, hours later, the Israeli military called for residents of approximately 25 Lebanese villages to evacuate, signalling a potential expansion of the conflict.
The incursion has raised concerns in Lebanon, where Prime Minister Najib Mikati warned that the country is facing "one of its most dangerous phases."
According to his office, the escalating conflict has already displaced over one million Lebanese citizens. This figure is expected to grow as hostilities continue.
Meanwhile, Israeli air strikes on targets in Lebanon have not ceased. The IDF confirmed hitting multiple targets, including sites in the capital, Beirut. Lebanese officials, however, have reported that an air raid struck a building within a Palestinian refugee camp near the city of Sidon, raising fears of a growing humanitarian crisis.
As tensions soar in the region, the international community is urging restraint. With the potential involvement of Iran, a new and dangerous phase in the ongoing conflict appears to be unfolding. Both sides remain on high alert, with fears that any misstep could lead to a broader regional confrontation.