U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham called for renewed military action against Hamas and Hezbollah if they fail to disarm during a press conference in Jerusalem. The call came amidst reports of ongoing Israeli ceasefire violations, raising fears that such threats could further destabilize a fragile peace in the region.
Hamas has dismissed Graham's claims that it is "consolidating power" during the truce as a pretext for future aggression. The group has instead pointed to continued Israeli military actions in Gaza, such as artillery shelling in Khan Yunis and a deadly attack on a school shelter, as evidence that Israel is violating the ceasefire. Hamas officials argue these actions, not their governance, are the true obstacles to peace.
Regarding Hezbollah, Graham suggested joint U.S.-Israeli military operations if the group refuses to surrender its heavy weapons. However, Hezbollah has long maintained that its arsenal is a legitimate deterrent for defending Lebanese sovereignty, a stance it has not changed. While the Lebanese government claims it has begun a disarmament process in the south, Israel has questioned its effectiveness.
The senator's warnings sharply contrasted with appeals for restraint from international mediators, including the U.S., Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, made just a day earlier. Graham also voiced strong opposition to Turkey's proposed role in an international stabilization force for Gaza, stating it would "rock Israel to its core". This position places him at odds with the broader diplomatic effort to implement the ceasefire's second phase, which includes plans for an Israeli withdrawal and the establishment of an interim governing authority.
The situation remains tense. With reports of Palestinian casualties continuing, Graham's threats of renewed conflict have cast a shadow over diplomatic efforts. The path forward appears to hinge on addressing the immediate violations on the ground and moving toward a political solution, rather than escalating toward another devastating military confrontation.