Report: US-Iran Efforts Show Progress, Hezbollah Remains ‘Wild Card’

Over the past week, U.S. President Joe Biden has been deeply engaged in diplomacy and military actions to prevent a catastrophic war in the Middle East, according to the Washington Post.

The White House’s efforts have included covert communications with Iran urging restraint, strong warnings to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against blocking a Gaza cease-fire, and the deployment of U.S. naval and air forces to protect Israel and other allies if needed.

Despite the ongoing high risk of a regional war, White House officials believe Biden’s initiatives are making progress. Iran may be reconsidering a significant retaliation after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. However, Hezbollah, Iran’s proxy in Lebanon, remains unpredictable.

The confusion over the details of Haniyeh’s death has complicated Iran’s response. Initially, Tehran claimed he was killed by an Israeli missile, warranting a similar Iranian retaliation. However, officials now believe he was killed by a hidden bomb, potentially altering Iran’s response strategy. Iran has been known to carry out similar targeted attacks in other countries.

Tehran may also be deterred by the U.S. show of military force and secret communications from the White House, relayed through the Swiss embassy in Tehran and the Iranian mission at the United Nations.

“Iran clearly understands that the United States is steadfast in defending our interests, our partners, and our people. We have moved a significant amount of military assets to the region to emphasize this principle,” a senior administration official told the Washington Post.

U.S. communications to Iran have highlighted the high risk of major escalation, which could destabilize the new government of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Following a tense phone call between Biden and Netanyahu, the Israeli leader has shown support for the U.S.-brokered cease-fire deal. Previously, Netanyahu was demanding changes to the U.S.-negotiated formula, which mediators feared could derail the agreement. This week, he reportedly informed at least one member of his right-wing coalition that he supports the deal without amendments.

“The United States stands firmly behind the cease-fire and hostage release deal currently on the table,” a senior U.S. administration official told the newspaper. “All that’s left are issues surrounding the implementation of the deal. We are prepared to push this to closure,” the official added.