Washington, DC – A week before Israel launched a deadly barrage of attacks on Lebanon, killing nearly 500 people in a single day, the United States sent a diplomat to Israel with the goal of promoting de-escalation. However, the timing of the diplomat’s visit and subsequent Israeli attacks on Lebanon reflect a pattern of Israeli leaders defying what the Biden administration wants its ally to do.
The US has continued to provide unconditional support to Israel, despite warnings that the violence in Gaza could spill over into the rest of the Middle East. Experts argue that the conflict in Lebanon is an extension of the war in Gaza, which has killed thousands of Palestinians.
The Biden administration has been criticized for its passive enablement of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who seems to be thwarting ceasefire talks. Washington’s refusal to pressure Israel to moderate its position has led to an escalation in Lebanon.
The administration’s diplomatic efforts have been questioned, with some suggesting they were merely for domestic political consumption. As the conflict worsens, with Lebanon facing some of its deadliest days in history, the US government continues to avoid condemning Israeli actions.
Despite the surge in violence, the Pentagon has emphasized that a regional war has not yet occurred. However, unidentified US officials have reportedly supported Israel’s “de-escalation through escalation” strategy in Lebanon.
Experts argue that the US is reluctant to impose constraints on Israel and consistently refuses to do so, shifting the narrative instead. The stark contrast in responses to Israeli and Arab casualties highlights the unequal value placed on lives in the region.
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