Middle East on Brink of Regional War Amid Escalating Tensions

The Middle East edges toward a feared regional war following Iran's missile strike on Israel and Israel's ground incursions into Lebanon targeting Hezbollah. The UN calls for a cease-fire as casualties mount and international interventions increase. Amidst escalating violence, global powers urge restraint and humanitarian aid measures intensify.

The Middle East moved closer to a long-feared regional war on Wednesday, a day after Iran fired a barrage of missiles at Israel and Israel said it began limited ground incursions into Lebanon targeting the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia.

Israel reported intercepting many of the missiles, with US destroyers assisting in its defense. No casualties were identified despite Iran's claim that most missiles hit their targets. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation against Iran, which he accused of making a significant miscalculation.

The international community responded swiftly. The UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting to address the worsening conflict. The US imposed sanctions on entities aiding the Houthi group, while Russia and China called for immediate restraint. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres demanded an end to the tit-for-tat violence, emphasizing the need to prevent all-out war in Lebanon.

(With inputs from agencies.)