Jerusalem, Israel (May 26, 2026)

The United States may be prepared to back a wider Israeli military response in Lebanon as Hezbollah’s attacks across the northern border intensify, according to a senior American official familiar with the matter.

The warning comes during a sharp escalation in hostilities, with Hezbollah launching a large wave of drones and rockets toward Israel in recent days. The attacks have targeted both military positions and civilian areas, heightening pressure on Israeli leaders to respond more forcefully.

The American official indicated that Washington views the latest Hezbollah activity as a serious challenge to ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Israel and Lebanon. The official said the group has continued its attacks despite repeated warnings to halt fire and suggested that the United States would not expect Israel to absorb sustained strikes without responding.

Recent fighting has unfolded against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire framework that has struggled to hold since Hezbollah resumed attacks in early March. Israeli officials have accused the Iran-backed organization of attempting to undermine negotiations that could strengthen the Lebanese government and reduce Hezbollah’s military influence.

Israel has already expanded strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon and other areas, while officials in Jerusalem face growing domestic calls for a stronger campaign. The possibility of a broader operation raises concerns about further destabilizing Lebanon, where the conflict has caused heavy damage and deepened an already severe political and economic crisis.

At the center of the dispute is the future of Hezbollah’s armed presence in Lebanon. A durable ceasefire led by the Lebanese state would likely require a significant shift in the balance of power inside the country, a development Hezbollah has long resisted.

Besuros Tovos.