US attempts to limit Israeli retaliation in Lebanon
Last Updated on July 31, 2024 8:35 am
The United States is conducting diplomatic efforts to prevent Israel from attacking Lebanon’s capital Beirut or critical civilian infrastructure. The effort comes after a deadly rocket attack on the Golan Heights.
Twelve people were killed in the attack on Saturday (July 27). Israel and the United States have blamed Hezbollah for the attack, although Hezbollah has denied responsibility.
US officials are trying to limit Israeli counterattacks. They urged Israel not to target Beirut and southern areas of the city known as Hezbollah strongholds, or key infrastructure such as airports and bridges.
On Saturday, the Deputy Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, Elias Bou Saab, contacted US mediator Amos Hockstein after the attack on the Golan Heights. He said that if Israel refrains from attacking Beirut and its suburbs, it will be possible to avoid major tensions.
Israeli officials say they want to hit Hezbollah. But don’t want to spread the war across the region. However, Israel has made no commitment not to attack Beirut or its outskirts.
The US State Department has clarified that it will not disclose details of the diplomatic negotiations. But it is looking for a ‘durable solution’ to stop all cross border incidents.
White House spokesman John Kirby said Israel reserves the right to retaliate against the Golan attack. But neither side wants a full-scale war.
French diplomats are involved in an exchange of messages to ease tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. France has historical ties with Lebanon and about 20,000 French nationals live in the country.
Homefront Command, the force responsible for protecting Israeli civilians, has yet to issue any new directives. Which indicates, they are not fearing any major attack from Hezbollah or any other group.
On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet left responsibility for the strategy and timing of counterattacks against Hezbollah to the prime minister. Netanyahu’s aides have taken a stand against a large-scale war.
After the Golan attack, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smtrich and National Security Minister Itmar Ben-Gabhir called for strong retaliation. Smtrich said Hassan Nasrallah should pay with his head for the death of children. All of Lebanon must pay.
Source: Reuters