US Warns Israel's Neighbors of Escalating Iran Conflict

The United States has alerted several Middle Eastern nations to prepare for a potential sharp and widespread escalation of conflict, warning that the next phase of confrontation with Iran could be significantly more dangerous than previous clashes. Regional powers, particularly Jordan and Saudi Arabia, are concerned that a new conflict could simultaneously erupt on multiple fronts. According to Maariv, citing information from Jordan, these warnings were conveyed by the U.S. administration.

Washington anticipates that any potential hostilities might extend beyond Iran's borders. Israel faces the primary risk of simultaneous flare-ups on several fronts, including Lebanon, Yemen, and the Red Sea, in addition to direct conflict with Iran. The activities of the Houthis in Yemen and their pressure on the Bab el-Mandeb Strait pose an additional threat to a crucial regional shipping route. Simultaneously, the risk of escalation with Hezbollah in Lebanon persists. A new direct confrontation between Israel and Iran could trigger a chain reaction, activating Iran-aligned forces across various fronts concurrently, forcing Israel to divide its air defense, air force, and other resources across multiple theaters of operation.

Amidst these military preparations, Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman, are actively attempting to maintain diplomatic channels between Washington and Tehran, with Turkey and Pakistan mediating. Their objective is to prevent the complete collapse of negotiations and preserve the possibility of a return to diplomatic resolution. A large-scale regional war poses significant risks to these nations' security, energy exports, maritime trade, air travel, and internal economic stability.

The U.S. is reportedly preparing for a potential deterioration of the situation while simultaneously seeking to avoid direct involvement in a major conflict, especially with upcoming U.S. midterm elections. However, the diplomatic window is narrowing, and security agencies are already considering scenarios for the failure of ongoing negotiations.