High-Ranking US Official in Israel Advocates ‘Diplomacy’ as Optimal Approach to Handle Hezbollah

Addressing the threat posed by Hezbollah to Israel from its northern border with Lebanon through diplomatic means is the most effective approach, according to U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. Speaking to reporters in Tel Aviv on Friday, during his second visit since the outbreak of the Gaza war on October 7, Sullivan emphasized the importance of diplomacy over initiating a new war.

His visit coincides with ongoing hostilities between the Israeli army and Hezbollah, based in Lebanon. Sullivan highlighted the need for Israeli citizens who have evacuated communities along the northern border to safely return home with a genuine sense of security.

Sullivan believes that a negotiated resolution is crucial. This would ensure that Israeli residents near the northern border are not under the constant threat of attacks that could endanger their lives and destroy their communities. He expressed confidence in achieving this outcome through continued diplomatic efforts.

He also underlined the significance of deterrence as a key component of such diplomatic endeavors. Sullivan stressed the need to send a clear message that threats and terrorist activities from Hezbollah are intolerable.

The conflict between Hamas and Israel, which began on October 7, has seen Hezbollah launching almost daily rocket attacks on Israel, while Israel has responded with air and artillery strikes in southern Lebanon.