Iran and Israel tensions escalate, sparking fears of potential conflict
February 3, 2026 • Al Jazeera
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff Visits Israel to Discuss Tensions with Iran
US special envoy Steve Witkoff has returned to Israel for the second time in recent weeks, this time to discuss escalating tensions with Iran. The renewed threats of military action against Iran have heightened concerns across the Middle East. In response, the United States and Israel have strengthened their stance against Tehran.
The situation has been further complicated by nationwide protests in Iran, which have accused Israel of interference. As tensions between the two countries continue to rise, Iran has warned that it will inflict significant damage on Israel if attacked. The long-standing animosity between the US and Iran, as well as Israel, has contributed to the current escalation.
Witkoff’s visit comes amid a backdrop of decades-old hostility between the three nations. Diplomatic efforts have been ongoing in an attempt to de-escalate tensions. A group of experts will be discussing the prospects for diplomacy in this long-standing conflict.
Guests on the discussion include Thomas Warrick, non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council; Marzie Khalilian, political analyst focusing on US-Middle East relations and researcher at Carleton University; and Alon Pinkas, former Israeli diplomat.
Source: Al Jazeera