As Israel continues its ongoing war in Gaza and its offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Middle East continues to await Israel's vowed response to Iran's recent ballistic missile attack. NBC News' Matt Bradley reports from Beirut and breaks down the events leading to the strong possibility of Israel striking Iran.

But even as he did so, Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, was in Beirut, appearing eager to convey Iran’s readiness to support a joint cease-fire in Lebanon and in Gaza. The contrasting diplomacy and defiance spotlighted Iran’s efforts to assert its regional power while limiting damage to its land and people.