President Joe Biden stated on Sunday his intention to discuss the escalating situation in the Middle East with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing the necessity of preventing an all-out war in the region. While boarding Air Force One for Washington, Biden expressed, “It has to be. We really have to avoid it.” This declaration was made amidst Israeli airstrikes causing numerous casualties in Lebanon on Sunday. The timeline for Biden’s conversation with Netanyahu was not disclosed.
Reports indicate that the Hezbollah militant group has suffered significant losses to its leadership, culminating in the death of its top figure, Hassan Nasrallah, due to the Israeli airstrikes. The White House views Nasrallah’s demise as a major setback for the group. Concurrently, the administration is delicately navigating the situation to prevent an escalation of Israel’s conflict with Hamas, another organization supported by Iran, into a full-fledged regional war.
The incident underscores the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The United States, under President Biden’s leadership, remains committed to engaging with key stakeholders in the region to promote de-escalation and avoid a widespread conflict that could have devastating consequences for the area and beyond. The situation necessitates strategic diplomacy and careful coordination to quell tensions and foster a path towards peace and stability in the region. President Biden’s forthcoming conversation with Prime Minister Netanyahu signifies a proactive step in addressing the evolving crisis and seeking avenues for peaceful resolution.