US Urges Restraint as Israel-Hamas Conflict Risks Spreading to Lebanon
The United States has called for restraint as the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas poses a threat of expanding into Lebanon. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized that Hezbollah and other actors, both state and non-state, should not take advantage of the situation.
Speaking to reporters, Jean-Pierre stated that Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stressed the importance of a pause in the conflict to allow aid to be delivered and hostages to be released. However, she declined to provide further details on private diplomatic conversations.
Regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of ceasefire calls and Hezbollah leader’s remarks, Jean-Pierre mentioned that the US would continue to discuss the situation with Israel. She reiterated the US position of advocating for a pause to facilitate humanitarian aid and hostage release. Jean-Pierre refused to disclose specifics of diplomatic conversations but emphasized that Secretary of State Blinken has been clear in his statements.
Responding to Hezbollah leader’s speech, Jean-Pierre stated that the US would not engage in a war of words. The US does not seek an escalation of the conflict initiated by Hamas. She also highlighted that Hezbollah and other actors, including state and non-state entities, should refrain from exploiting the ongoing conflict. Jean-Pierre warned of the devastating consequences if the conflict were to expand to Lebanon, citing the 2006 war as a reference. The US strongly opposes such an expansion and seeks to prevent further suffering.
Addressing the issue of hostages, Jean-Pierre underscored that the safe return of Americans held captive is a priority for the US. This priority has been reiterated since the initial attack by Hamas on October 7. Jean-Pierre expressed optimism and emphasized the ongoing diplomatic efforts, including Secretary Blinken’s visit to Israel and upcoming visit to Jordan. The US remains committed to bringing the hostages back to their families.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah cautioned Israel against launching attacks on Lebanon, emphasizing that it would be a grave mistake. He expressed solidarity with Palestinians and emphasized that supporting Hamas is a patriotic duty for Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, and the wider Arab community. Nasrallah also urged Arab countries to halt oil exports to Israel and boasted about Hezbollah’s successful military actions along the Israel-Lebanon border.
The US call for restraint reflects its desire to prevent the Israel-Hamas conflict from spreading into Lebanon. As the conflict continues, the focus remains on achieving a pause for aid delivery and hostage release while avoiding further escalation and devastation. The US, along with its partners, emphasizes the need for Hezbollah and other actors to refrain from exploiting the situation. Efforts to bring Americans and other hostages home safely continue, with diplomatic conversations ongoing to find a resolution.
