*** official says group could be forced into wider conflict over Gaza attacks

The second in command of Lebanon's Hezbollah has hinted the militia could be dragged into a more intense conflict with Israel if it does not halt its attacks on Gaza.

In an exclusive interview with NBC News, Naim Qassem said the group questioned global support of Israel's military action in Gaza.

"How does America and the rest of the world have the right to stand on the side of Israel that kills civilians and children and destroys homes while we don't have the right to support our people and loved ones in Palestine and the region," he told Matt Bradley.

When asked if action by Hezbollah risked bringing Lebanon and the wider region into a war with Israel, Qassem added: "Hezbollah is in a position of resistance and reaction.

"The one who expands the aggression is Israel and who expands the aggression is America and Europe that supports the Israeli actions.

"And what expands the aggression is the killing of civilians and children.

"It's not possible to watch these difficult, painful and dangerous scenes and not get involved because what they do in Palestine they will do later in Lebanon and the region."