US officials are continuing to urge Israel to de-escalate following cross-border strikes against Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby emphasized the importance of avoiding military escalation to help Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government restore normalcy for Israelis on Lebanon's border.
Kirby stated that the White House believes military escalation is not the best approach and that diplomacy remains a viable option. He highlighted the ongoing diplomatic efforts, including the involvement of US envoy Amos Hochstein in the region.