Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a warning to Israel, advising them to avoid a prolonged conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Blinken, who is currently in Qatar discussing ways to end the war in Gaza, emphasized the importance of preventing a protracted campaign that could result in civilian casualties and endanger peacekeepers and the Lebanese Armed Forces.
Blinken emphasized the need for a diplomatic resolution that would allow civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes and live in peace. He also expressed support for efforts to strengthen Lebanese institutions independent of Hezbollah, in order to provide more security, opportunity, and prosperity for the people of Lebanon.
This warning comes in the wake of the Israeli military’s limited ground operation inside Lebanon, during which they discovered a hideout allegedly used by Hezbollah’s special forces unit to plan an attack on Israel. The IDF found bunk beds, storage cabinets, weapons, and launch positions in the underground facility, as well as weapons storage facilities with rockets, mortars, and RPGs.
In addition to his visit to Qatar, Blinken had recently visited Israel following a drone strike by Hezbollah aimed at assassinating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Secretary of State has been actively engaged in discussions to secure the release of hostages, end the conflict in Gaza, and support reconstruction efforts in the region.
Blinken’s efforts are part of broader diplomatic initiatives to promote stability and security in the Middle East. By urging Israel to avoid a prolonged conflict with Hezbollah and working towards peaceful resolutions, he aims to create a more secure and prosperous future for the people of the region.