Israeli talk of war with Hezbollah almost certainly fresh attempt at deterrence

Risk is that miscalculation leads to sudden conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which is far more powerful than Hamas

A warning from Israel's foreign minister, Israel Katz, that a decision on all-out war" with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon is coming soon is almost certainly a fresh attempt at deterrence on his part - not least because both sides well understand how devastating full hostilities would be.

The reality is that Hezbollah, an ally of Iran, is a more powerful adversary than Hamas in Gaza. It is estimated to have between 30,000 and 50,000 fighters available and a similar number in reserve - plus between 120,000 and 200,000 unguided missiles and rockets, plus attack and reconnaissance drones.