The Escalating Israel-Hamas Conflict: Insights from a Former NATO Commander

Former NATO commander Admiral James Stavridis warns that Iran could escalate the Israel-Hamas conflict by using its proxy, Hezbollah, to launch attacks on Israel. Stavridis also highlights the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz as another avenue for Iran to escalate the conflict, which could disrupt global oil trade. Concerns over Iran's support for Hamas and Hezbollah against Israel have prompted the House Foreign Affairs Committee to draft legislation allowing for U.S. military force in the Middle East if Iranian-backed forces become involved. The U.S. is prepared to support Israel with two aircraft carrier strike groups and 2,000 marines if Iran unleashes an attack.