Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a warning to Israel on Thursday, advising against a prolonged military campaign targeting the terrorist group Hezbollah in Lebanon. Blinken, currently in Qatar for discussions aimed at resolving the conflict in Gaza, emphasized the importance of Israel taking necessary measures to prevent civilian casualties and safeguard the well-being of U.N. peacekeepers and the Lebanese Armed Forces.
During his visit, Blinken expressed the urgency of reaching a diplomatic solution that would enable civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes and live in peace. He also highlighted the commitment to supporting Lebanese efforts to strengthen their institutions independently of Hezbollah's influence, with the goal of enhancing security, opportunities, and prosperity for the people of Lebanon.
The cautionary remarks from Blinken follow Israel's recent limited ground operation in Lebanon, where the Israel Defense Forces uncovered a hideout allegedly used by Hezbollah's special forces unit for planning attacks. The IDF disclosed the discovery of bunk beds, weapons, and launch positions in the underground facility, along with multiple weapons storage sites containing rockets, mortars, and other armaments.
Additionally, Blinken's meeting with Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha focused on efforts to secure the release of hostages, end the conflict in Gaza, and support reconstruction and governance in the region post-war. The diplomatic engagements come in the aftermath of a drone strike by Hezbollah targeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence in Caesarea.
