US affirms support for Israel amid escalating tensions with Lebanon

Despite mounting civilian casualties, Biden administration clarifies that its policy towards Israel remains unchanged

The US government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing Israel with military support, as tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border intensify.

Despite ongoing bombing and shelling across the Blue Line, and mounting civilian casualties, the Biden administration has made it clear that its policy towards Israel remains unchanged, emphasising Israel’s right to defend itself against Hezbollah and other Iran-backed forces in Lebanon.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed the situation during a press briefing, emphasising that the US is “ironclad” in its support for Israel, particularly in the face of threats from Hezbollah and other Iran-backed forces in the region.

While the conflict has escalated, Jean-Pierre said there are no plans to halt the flow of arms to Israel, a stance that has drawn criticism from some lawmakers and human rights groups.

The ongoing arms shipments to Israel, coupled with the rising conflict in Lebanon, have prompted questions about the US’s role in the region.

The border conflict has seen sporadic flare-ups since October 7, and the US has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. Jean-Pierre outlined ongoing discussions with key regional players, including Egypt and Qatar, to broker a ceasefire and facilitate the release of hostages.

“We are working tirelessly with Egypt, Qatar, and Israel to achieve a ceasefire deal,” she said. “It is urgent, and we believe it will lower the temperature and help create the conditions needed for displaced civilians to return to their homes.”

In response to rising concerns and questions about the US role in the conflict, Jean-Pierre confirmed that there are no plans to change America’s arms policy toward Israel.

The US continues to supply Israel with military aid, despite calls from some lawmakers, including Senator Bernie Sanders, to halt these supplies.

“Our commitment to Israel’s security is unwavering,” she said, adding that the U.S. sees no reason to change its policy on military support at this time.

A significant part of the administration’s strategy is focused on achieving a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages currently held by Hamas in Gaza.

Jean-Pierre noted that talks with Egypt, Qatar, and Israel are ongoing, but did not offer specifics about the negotiations. The goal is to bring hostages home, end the conflict, and allow for much-needed humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza.

The White House remains optimistic about a diplomatic resolution, despite the complex dynamics of the conflict.

While the White House maintains that diplomacy is the path forward, its decision to keep supplying Israel with military aid is seen by some as contradictory.

The administration’s position, however, remains resolute: Israel’s security takes precedence, and military aid will continue as long as the threat from Hezbollah and Iran-backed forces persists.