The Biden administration recently conveyed strong disapproval to Israel for any attacks on Lebanon’s armed forces, whether intentional or accidental.
This stance comes amid escalating concerns about the potential expansion of conflict in the already volatile Middle East region.
According to US officials, a series of at least 34 Israeli strikes, occurring since October 7, targeted regions where members of the Lebanese Armed Forces were present. These strikes resulted in eight injuries and one fatality among the Lebanese Armed Forces.
A spokesperson from the White House National Security Council emphasized the United States’ firm stance, expressing a desire to prevent the escalation of conflict into Lebanon.
The spokesperson urged Israel to exercise caution, stressing the importance of avoiding civilian areas, infrastructure, farmland, and United Nations facilities, while highlighting the significance of the partnership with the Lebanese Armed Forces for regional stability and security.
The purported strikes against the Lebanese military reportedly utilized various means, including small arms, artillery fire, drones, and helicopters, supposedly in response to Hezbollah, a group backed by Iran, operating within Lebanon.
Biden Administration’s Delicate Diplomacy with Israel
While acknowledging that some strikes may have been accidental and aimed at targeting Hezbollah, a US official expressed concern over the unclear intentions behind other strikes. This ambiguity raises questions about the level of restraint exercised by certain Israeli troops.
Responding to these assertions, an IDF spokesperson reiterated Israel’s motive to neutralize threats posed by Hezbollah’s military infrastructure.
The spokesperson emphasized that any harm caused to civilians or other forces is unintentional, affirming the IDF’s commitment to reviewing incidents to enhance operational precautions and ensure accountability when necessary.
The United States has been a significant supporter of the Lebanese Armed Forces, investing over $3 billion since 2006 in training, equipping, and funding the army. This support aligns with the State Department’s objective of bolstering the Lebanese military as a stabilizing force against regional threats.
The recent communication between the Biden administration and Israel underscores the delicate balance between addressing security concerns and preventing further escalation in a region fraught with tensions and complexities.
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