The US is ruling out a strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, but Israel has other options for retaliation. One thing is clear: a regional war is no longer imminent, it is here.

Iran could no longer be seen as sitting on the fence, allowing its proxy allies, Hezbollah and Hamas, to engage with Israel on their own.

Displays of the Hezbollah flag have raised political passions and debate about the limits to free speech.

Hezbollah’s leadership ranks have been decimated, but it has the capacity to re-establish itself. It also reportedly has an arsenal of 150,000 rockets, missiles and drones it can use to strike back.

Both sides have stepped back from the precipice of all-out war, but this doesn’t mean the danger is over.

Iran’s new government must balance the need to respond forcefully to an attack on its soil with the desire to pursue diplomatic and economic reforms.

Hezbollah is the most powerful, sub-national militant group in the world. A war with Israel could be devastating for the region.

The use of such incendiary devices is only legal under very specific circumstances. A careful examination of the evidence is now required.

Countries like Egypt, Lebanon, Syria and Qatar all have a stake in the outcome of the war – but none want to be actively involved in fighting.

Iran’s direct entry in the Israel-Hamas war could have military and political repercussions that would prove too risky for the ruling regime.

New Zealand must be even-handed in its response to the catastrophe unfolding in Israel and Gaza, while still trying to keep hope of peace alive.