United States is spearheading a diplomatic push to prevent Israel from launching a major strike on Beirut or other significant civil infrastructure in Lebanon following a deadly rocket attack on the Golan Heights. The attack, which occurred over the weekend, resulted in the deaths of 12 youths and has heightened tensions between Israel and the Iranian-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah.
High-Speed Diplomacy to Contain Israel’s Response
In response to the rocket strike, Washington is urgently working to de-escalate the situation and avoid a broader conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Five individuals with knowledge of the situation, including Lebanese and Iranian officials and Middle Eastern and European diplomats, revealed that the focus of the diplomatic efforts has been to persuade Israel to refrain from targeting densely populated areas in Beirut and key infrastructure such as airports and bridges.
Lebanon’s deputy parliament speaker, Elias Bou Saab, emphasized that avoiding strikes on civilian areas could prevent a significant escalation. “If they avoid civilians and they avoid Beirut and its suburbs, then their attack could be well calculated,” he stated.
Israel’s Stance and International Mediation
Israeli officials have expressed a desire to punish Hezbollah without triggering an all-out war. Despite this, there has been no formal commitment from Israel to avoid strikes on Beirut or its infrastructure. US State Department has reiterated its unwavering support for Israel’s security while seeking a “durable solution” to end cross-border violence.
White House spokesperson John Kirby affirmed Israel’s right to respond to the Golan Heights attack but stressed that no one desires a broader war. “As for conversations over the weekend, you bet we’ve had them and we had them at multiple levels,” Kirby said. However, he did not disclose the details of these discussions.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
The recent escalation recalls the 2006 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, during which Israeli forces heavily bombed Beirut’s southern suburbs and other parts of Lebanon, causing widespread destruction. In light of this history, France has also been involved in mediating between Israel and Hezbollah to prevent further violence. France, which has longstanding ties with Lebanon, has been actively passing messages to de-escalate the situation.
Outlook and Strategic Decisions
The Israeli Homefront Command has not issued new instructions to civilians, indicating that the military does not anticipate imminent danger. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet has authorized a response against Hezbollah but has stopped short of an all-out war. Far-right coalition partners have called for robust action, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich demanding severe retaliation for the deaths caused by the Golan Heights attack.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community remains watchful, hoping to avert a devastating conflict in an already volatile region.