shibhaljazeera | News
Senior US officials have assured Israeli leaders that the Biden administration is prepared to support Israel in the event of a full-scale conflict with Hezbollah. This reassurance comes amidst increasing cross-border attacks between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah, heightening fears of a new conflict in the Middle East.
During high-level meetings in Washington, Israeli officials including Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer and National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi met with US counterparts such as National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and White House Middle East Coordinator Brett McGurk. Discussions covered a range of issues, including the tense situation on Israel’s northern border, Iranian activities, and ongoing ceasefire and hostage negotiations.
US officials emphasized that while the administration is ready to provide necessary security assistance to Israel, it will not deploy American troops. This stance follows escalating provocations from Hezbollah since Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7. Despite US efforts to promote diplomatic de-escalation, exemplified by sending envoy Amos Hochstein to the region, the threat of expanded conflict remains high.
The Biden administration is particularly concerned about the potential for Hezbollah to overwhelm Israel’s air defenses, including the Iron Dome system, in a large-scale war. This scenario underscores the critical nature of US support for Israel.
In the meetings, US and Israeli officials also explored ways to reduce tensions along the Blue Line separating Lebanon and Israel, including strategies for returning displaced individuals to their homes.