Washington [US], June 28: Politico newspaper on June 27, citing knowledgeable sources, revealed that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Hezbollah have drawn up a battle plan and are in the process of purchasing more weapons. Both sides publicly say they do not want a war to break out, but US officials fear large-scale fighting will soon occur despite mediation efforts.
US officials have recently called on all sides to exercise restraint and promote a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip between Israel and Hamas forces , but it is not likely that a ceasefire will soon be agreed by both sides.
A war between Israel and Hezbollah breaking out means that Washington must support Tel Aviv, thereby pushing the administration of US President Joe Biden to become more deeply involved in the situation in the Middle East, while being busy focusing on the upcoming period. presidential election.
US intelligence has been more cautious than some in Europe, who have said fighting could break out within days. Several countries have prepared plans to evacuate their citizens from Lebanon. The US State Department's June 27 travel advisory advised citizens to "carefully reconsider" their plans to visit Lebanon.
US intelligence officials stress that it is unclear exactly when a war might occur, but Israel is accelerating its build-up of military capabilities and stockpiles.
Senior Biden administration officials have been making repeated trips to Israel and Lebanon in an effort to ease tensions. But intelligence suggests that any catalyst for war - such as a major Israeli-Lebanese attack - could come without warning, according to Politico .
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said on June 27 that Israel does not want a war. "The goal is to bring our citizens home safely. We want to do that through understanding, but we are preparing for every possible scenario," he said.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper