Interview with Gen. Frank McKenzie

Retired General Frank McKenzie, former commander of U.S. forces in the Middle East, has expressed concerns about the potential involvement of Lebanese Hezbollah in the ongoing conflict. Hezbollah, recognized as the largest non-state military entity globally, possesses tens of thousands of precise rockets and missiles, which could pose a significant threat to Israel. McKenzie highlighted that the group's geographic proximity and military capabilities set it apart from other regional actors like Iran and the Houthis. However, the decision for Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, to engage in a large-scale conflict with Israel is fraught with risks, particularly given the potential for a severe Israeli counterattack. The general noted that Hezbollah may be in a weakened state due to Lebanon's dire economic situation and political gridlock, factors that Nasrallah must consider before escalating military actions. The current instability within Lebanon could deter Hezbollah from entering a direct confrontation with Israel, as the consequences could be devastating for the group and the nation. Regarding U.S. involvement, McKenzie referenced a previous Iranian attack on Israel that failed due to Israeli defenses and operational competence. He emphasized that the U.S. military is adaptable and prepared for air combat, suggesting confidence in their ability to respond effectively if necessary. Finally, McKenzie questioned whether the U.S. strategy of focusing on a ceasefire in Gaza remains the best approach to de-escalate tensions in the region, indicating that Iranian actions may not be directly linked to the situation in Gaza. As the situation evolves, all eyes remain on the potential for conflict escalation in the coming days.