Recent targeted killings of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders in Beirut and Tehran have deepened fears of a potential regionwide conflict. The U.S. Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken, stated that the U.S. was not involved or informed of these operations, which Iran has blamed on Israel.

• Concerns have been raised that political instability in the U.S. may embolden nations like Russia, North Korea, and China.
• The crisis coincides with the U.S. presidential election, raising questions about America’s ability to manage international conflicts.
• A dangerous power vacuum may be developing as the U.S. remains distracted by domestic issues.