Seth J. Frantzman

Turkey and Israel are trading heated rhetoric over Jerusalem and regional influence, raising concerns that verbal clashes could escalate into broader tensions in Syria and the Eastern Mediterranean.

Iran’s goal is to up the ante in the region, such that it feels it can do what it wants, when it wants. It has been doing this already for 45 years. However, now it feels emboldened.

Hezbollah is seeking to use recent Iranian missile attacks on Israel to regain influence in Lebanon, pushing the government toward a more pro-Iran stance.

The US has warmed to Zaidi after opposing former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, who almost became prime minister in February.

One of Iran’s key strategies for maintaining regional influence is not to lose its hold over Iraq, leading to strikes against Kurdish Iranian opposition groups in Iraq.

Iran's strikes on Israel are not so much a response to strikes on Beirut as they are Iran's attempt at clawing back regional power and influence.

These talks have gone on for two months. Pakistan has continued to stay the course in terms of trying to be optimistic that a deal is within reach.

“We are fed up, and we want to live in peace,” said Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

Iran’s Quds Force chief Esmail Qaani demanded Israel withdraw from Lebanon, warning that supporting Hezbollah is a duty and stressing the region’s ongoing tensions.

Iraq’s Prime Minister Ali al Zaidi met Iranian-backed militias to push them to disarm and join state command, aiming to limit armed group influence while avoiding conflict.