WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Tensions are high in the Middle East, where Israel and Hezbollah traded fire early Sunday.
The fighting has since calmed down, but the region is on high alert.
The Pentagon says it’s closely monitoring the situation but the exchange has raised concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East.
Israel launched airstrikes on Hezbollah Sunday calling it a preemptive move to avoid a larger attack from the Lebanese militant group.
Hezbollah fired hundreds of rockets into Israel.
“It’s perhaps the biggest exchange we’ve had since the start of this conflict,” said Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.).
New Jersey Senator Cory Booker told CNN the news was “worrisome.” he said the U.S. is working to prevent escalation.
“The most urgent issue right now is ending this awful conflict in the Middle East,” Booker said.
Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah have traded fire almost daily since the war in Gaza started, but this marked the most intense exchange in months.
“This just underscores the emergency,” said Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).
Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren said on “Meet the Press” the Israel-Hamas war has to end.
“Stop all the bombing, get the hostages back home, spend real resources on humanitarian relief in Gaza,” Warren said.
The cross-border attacks come as ceasefire talks continue.
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham told CNN negotiators need to get tough on Iran.
“That’s the only way you’re ever going to get the hostages released is to put pressure on Iran,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.).
Hezbollah’s leader said the attack was in retaliation to Israel’s killing of a top commander last month.
