Amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, The Wall Street Journal reports on the complex power dynamics between Israel, Hamas, and Iran. The recent conflict in Gaza has highlighted the challenges facing the Biden administration, which has called for a cease-fire while simultaneously urging Israel to avoid broader regional conflict. The article explores the intersecting interests of Iran and Hezbollah, complicating the situation further. While some Israeli security officials believe Israel may be willing to make significant concessions for a deal with Hamas, the Israeli leadership remains steadfast in its stance, adding to the complexity of the crisis. The recent events have been a test for these assumptions. Last week, a major escalation was anticipated following Hamas’s rejection of Israeli concessions, which were deemed insufficient. Hezbollah then escalated the conflict. However, Israel surprised everyone with proactive measures that prevented further escalation. This sudden shift raises the question: could there be new, unexpected paths forward in this ongoing conflict? The article suggests that Israel’s recent actions, including the destruction of thousands of rockets and preemptive strikes, have significantly reduced Hezbollah’s offensive capability. This scenario presents a third, previously overlooked option: Israel taking the initiative to prevent escalation. The Wall Street Journal analyzes the current situation, examining the potential outcomes for each player and the future of the conflict.