The recent exchange of fire between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah has eased the immediate risk of a broader war in the Middle East, according to Air Force General C.Q. Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. However, Iran still poses a significant danger as it contemplates a strike on Israel. General Brown made these remarks after a three-day trip to the Middle East, during which he visited Israel just hours after Hezbollah launched rockets and drones at the country.
Hezbollah’s attack was one of two major threats against Israel that emerged in recent weeks. Iran has also threatened an attack in response to the killing of a Hamas leader in Tehran. While the immediate risk of a regional war has somewhat declined, General Brown emphasized that the situation depends on how Iran responds. Israel’s response will then dictate whether a broader conflict ensues.
General Brown also highlighted the risk posed by Iran’s militant allies in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan, who have targeted US troops. He also mentioned the Houthis in Yemen, who have attacked Red Sea shipping and even fired drones at Israel. General Brown referred to the Houthis as the “wild card” in the region.
Iran has vowed a severe response to the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, which it blames on Israel. While Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement, General Brown stated that the US military is better positioned to aid in the defense of Israel and its own forces in the Middle East compared to April 13, when Iran launched a significant attack on Israel. At that time, the US and its allies managed to destroy most of the weapons before they reached their targets.
To improve their position, the US has decided to maintain two aircraft carrier strike groups in the Middle East and deploy an extra squadron of F-22 fighter jets. General Brown emphasized the need to continually improve upon their previous actions.
However, General Brown noted that any plans Iran’s military might have would ultimately be decided by Iran’s political leaders. While they want to send a message, they also want to avoid creating a broader conflict.
The Biden administration has been working to limit the fallout from the ongoing war in Gaza between Hamas and Israel. The conflict has not only devastated Gaza but has also led to border clashes between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah and has drawn in Yemen’s Houthis.
During his trip, General Brown visited the Israeli military’s Northern Command, where he received briefings on the threats along Israel’s borders with Lebanon and Syria. He also met with Israel’s Defense Minister and Chief of the General Staff.
When asked about Hezbollah’s military capabilities, General Brown cautioned that they still possess the ability to carry out attacks. The current war in the Gaza Strip began in October 2023 when Hamas gunmen attacked Israeli communities, resulting in numerous casualties and abductions. Israel’s military campaign has since displaced a significant portion of Gaza’s population, leading to widespread suffering and death.
In conclusion, while the immediate risk of a broader war in the Middle East has somewhat diminished, Iran’s potential strike on Israel remains a significant concern. General Brown emphasized the need for continuous improvement in the US military’s position and highlighted the risks posed by Iran’s militant allies in the region. The ongoing war in Gaza continues to have far-reaching consequences, impacting not only Gaza but also neighboring countries. Efforts are being made to limit the fallout from this conflict and prevent further escalation.