Blinken: US Collaborating Closely with Israel, Lebanon on Diplomacy

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated that the United States is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to peacefully resolve the ongoing border tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

Blinken, during his visit to Israel, emphasized the goal of reducing tensions along Israel’s northern border, aiming to ensure that residents of northern Israel and southern Lebanon can return to their homes and live in safety and peace.

Discussions about achieving a peaceful resolution were also advanced during meetings between Amos Hochstein, a key adviser to President Joe Biden, and Israeli leadership, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. These talks, as reported by the U.S. news outlet Axios, focused on establishing new agreements between Lebanon and Israel.

The conflict has escalated since October 7, following the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and the Gaza-based Palestinian militant group Hamas, leading to frequent skirmishes along the Lebanese-Israeli border involving Hezbollah, an ally of Hamas.

These confrontations have resulted in significant casualties and destruction. Israeli strikes on Lebanese border towns have led to the deaths of 227 individuals, predominantly Hezbollah fighters, but also including 27 civilians and three journalists. On the Israeli side, the conflict has claimed the lives of 15 individuals, among them nine soldiers and six civilians, as reported by the Israeli military.

Additionally, the violence has forced tens of thousands of people from their homes, creating a dire humanitarian situation on both sides of the border.