In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iran’s permanent mission to the United Nations has warned that Hezbollah’s future responses to Israeli actions may not be limited to military targets. This statement comes in the wake of recent Israeli strikes in Beirut that targeted residential areas, breaking an unwritten understanding between the two parties to confine their actions to border areas and military objectives. This shift in strategy could potentially lead to a wider conflict in the region, raising concerns among international observers.

The escalating situation has prompted Sweden to take precautionary measures. On Saturday, Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom announced the temporary closure of the country’s embassy in Beirut. The decision, initially set for August, may be extended depending on the security situation.

The recent killings of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, attributed to Israel, have further heightened regional tensions amid the ongoing Gaza war.

In response to the growing instability, several major airlines have suspended flights to Israel and Lebanon. Global carriers including United, Delta, British Airways, Swiss, Lufthansa, and Air India have announced cancellations of their flights to the region.

These developments underscore the volatile nature of the current situation in the Middle East, with fears of a potential expansion of the conflict beyond its current boundaries. International diplomatic efforts are likely to intensify in the coming days to prevent further escalation and promote stability in the region.