Biden insisted his administration is still “working to de-escalate” tensions….reports Asian Lite News
For nearly a year, President Joe Biden has aimed to prevent the Gaza conflict from escalating into a broader regional war. However, as he prepares for a farewell visit to the UN General Assembly, Israel’s intensified military operations against Lebanon highlight the limits of U.S. influence.
In a meeting with the UAE leader on Monday, Biden insisted his administration is still “working to de-escalate” tensions. Yet, developments have quickly spiraled beyond U.S. control. Following attacks on the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon, the U.S. claimed it had no prior knowledge of Israel’s military actions and urged restraint.
Rather than de-escalating, Israel ramped up its assaults, reportedly striking 1,000 Hezbollah sites in just one day. Lebanese authorities reported 492 casualties, including 35 children. Following a Hamas attack that traumatized Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed warnings about potential consequences, stating that Israel’s goal is to shift the “security balance” in Lebanon.
These military actions unfolded after unsuccessful U.S.-led diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza. Netanyahu’s insistence on maintaining Israeli troops along the Gaza-Egypt border and unresolved disputes with Hamas have stymied negotiations. Michael Hanna from the International Crisis Group noted that U.S. initiatives aimed at stabilizing Lebanon depended on achieving a Gaza ceasefire, which now appears unattainable.
With the U.S. political calendar also complicating matters, Vice President Kamala Harris faces a challenging election against Donald Trump. Analysts believe the Biden administration is unlikely to take significant action against Israel, given the political risks involved.
While Biden has expressed concern for civilians in Gaza, he has largely refrained from using U.S. military aid as leverage. Meanwhile, the Pentagon announced additional troop deployments to the region, reinforcing Israel’s position amid rising tensions.
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