Author: ELLEN KNICKMEYER and AAMER MADHANI / AP

As tensions between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah militants escalate, U.S., European, and Arab mediators are working to prevent a wider conflict in the Middle East. Despite hopes for a ceasefire in Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza, attacks by Hezbollah continue, leading to concerns of a broader war. American and European officials are cautioning Hezbollah not to underestimate Israel’s military strength and to avoid provoking an Israeli invasion into Lebanon. The recent plateau in hostilities offers some relief, but the threat of a major conflict lingers as both sides remain on high alert. With fears of catastrophic consequences, global leaders…