WASHINGTON: US President Joe Biden is “closely monitoring events in Israel and Lebanon” following a significant escalation in cross-border attacks between Israel and Hezbollah, the White House said after Israel launched massive airstrikes in Lebanon in response to what it said were Hezbollah’s preparations for a large-scale assault.
The White House said that Biden has been engaged with his national security team and is receiving regular updates about the situation from senior US officials who are in continuous communication with their Israeli counterparts.
National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett stated that the US will continue to support Israel’s right to self-defence and remain committed to regional stability.
According to Israeli reports, Israel had provided advance notice to the US regarding the planned attack on Lebanon. Israeli news outlet Walla confirmed that the US was informed ahead of time about the airstrikes.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to discuss the situation. The Pentagon’s spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder affirmed Austin’s reaffirmation of “the United States’ ironclad commitment to Israel’s defence against any attacks by Iran and its regional allies.”
The escalation follows a series of intense cross-border exchanges that began on October 8. Israeli airstrikes have targeted around 17 areas and towns in southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah has launched dozens of rockets and drones into Israeli territory.
Hezbollah reported that it hit 10 locations in northern Israel in retaliation for the killing of its senior commander, Fuad Shukur, by an Israeli strike last month.
The recent violence has spiked fears of a broader regional conflict, exacerbating the already tense situation in Gaza.
Meanwhile, high-level negotiations are underway in Cairo, Egypt, aimed at brokering a ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and Hamas and possibly facilitating a prisoner exchange.
After the cross-border escalation, the Israel Airports Authority has announced delays in departing flights from Ben Gurion Airport due to security concerns.
