US President Joe Biden has announced his intention to engage in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the wake of escalating tensions in the Middle East following the assassination of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah by Israel.
President Biden confirmed his upcoming conversation with Netanyahu as he returned from Dover Air Force Base to the White House. He emphasized the importance of preventing a full-scale conflict in the region, stating, 'We really have to avoid' such a scenario. Biden also mentioned that precautionary measures have been taken concerning US embassies and personnel who may need to evacuate, while highlighting ongoing collaborative efforts with France and other allies.
Prior to Nasrallah's assassination, Netanyahu had dismissed a ceasefire proposal facilitated by the US and France, which aimed at a 21-day cessation of hostilities along the Israel-Lebanon border. This move reportedly irked American officials who believed Netanyahu was in agreement with the proposal. Furthermore, Israel's initiation of a significant operation in Beirut was communicated to the US only after it had commenced, causing frustration among certain American officials.
With existing tensions between Biden and Netanyahu over the prolonged conflict in Gaza, the US President is now faced with the challenge of de-escalating tensions on multiple fronts at a time when his influence on Netanyahu's decision-making appears to be at a low point.
