As Mideast war flares again, here are the stakes for each side

Key Points:

• The fragile Middle East ceasefire is at risk of collapse following Israeli strikes on Hezbollah in Beirut, prompting Iran’s first attacks on Israel since the April 7 ceasefire and escalating retaliatory strikes between Israel and Iran.
• Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, facing elections, is under pressure to demonstrate strength against Hezbollah, continuing military operations in southern Lebanon despite ceasefire agreements and U.S. calls to avoid escalating the conflict.
• Hezbollah rejects ceasefires and continues attacks on Israel, backed by Iran, which is willing to risk wider regional war to defend its interests in Lebanon and maintain influence over Hezbollah.
• Iran is balancing risks of renewed war against economic and military damage with strategic goals, leveraging disruption in the Strait of Hormuz to resist U.S. and Israeli pressure, while insisting Lebanon be included in any regional settlement.
• Gulf states seek a swift end to hostilities due to vulnerability from Iranian strikes and economic disruptions, fearing prolonged conflict would destabilize the region and undermine their security despite alliances with the U.S.