President Joe Biden has described the Israeli strike that killed Hezbollah's Hassan Nasrallah as a 'measure of justice' for his four-decade reign of terror. The strike, which took place in Beirut, Lebanon, was confirmed by Hezbollah, with Nasrallah being one of the group's founders.
Biden highlighted that the operation to eliminate Nasrallah was part of the broader conflict that began with Hamas' attack on Israelis on Oct. 7, 2023. Nasrallah's decision to join forces with Hamas and open a 'northern front' against Israel was a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict.
Under Nasrallah's leadership, Hezbollah has been responsible for numerous attacks resulting in the deaths of thousands of Americans, Israelis, and Lebanese. These include the infamous truck bombing of the U.S. Embassy and multinational force barracks in Beirut in 1983, as well as the kidnapping of a CIA chief of station in Beirut.
The White House views Nasrallah's death as a significant blow to Hezbollah but is cautious about the potential escalation of the conflict with Hamas, which is also supported by Iran. The administration has been working to contain the situation and prevent a broader regional conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue operations against Hezbollah until Israeli citizens displaced by rocket attacks can return home. Biden has reiterated his call for cease-fires in both Gaza and between Israel and Hezbollah to bring stability to the region.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has accused the U.S. of supporting the strike that killed Nasrallah and others, claiming complicity with Israel. In response to the volatile security situation in Lebanon, the State Department has ordered the departure of U.S. diplomats' families and authorized the departure of nonessential employees from Beirut.
Biden has directed the Pentagon to assess and adjust the U.S. force posture in the region to enhance deterrence and support U.S. objectives amid rising tensions. The situation remains fluid, with efforts ongoing to secure cease-fires and stabilize the region.
