U.S. officials are keeping a close eye on the rising tensions between Lebanon and Israel following this week’s dramatic attack on Hezbollah’s telecommunications systems in Lebanon and reportedly in Syria, Al Arabiya reported, citing officials. 

Despite the severity of the incident, officials do not currently believe Israel is preparing for an imminent ground invasion or large-scale incursion into Lebanon. However, they remain concerned about the potential for escalation, particularly after the recent explosions that targeted pagers, walkie-talkies, and other communication devices used by Hezbollah.

While the United States has firmly denied any involvement in the attacks that targeted communication devices used by Hezbollah members, Israeli military forces, largely equipped, funded, and trained by the U.S., carried out the operation. Washington has publicly distanced itself from the incident and conveyed through indirect channels to Iran that it was not involved.

U.S. officials acknowledge that the situation could escalate, particularly if Hezbollah chooses to respond aggressively. However, they do not currently believe that Israel has committed to further large-scale military operations. Still, any disproportionate response from Hezbollah or subsequent actions by Israel could quickly change the current outlook.