"Israel and Hezbollah Escalate Tensions, Risking Wider Conflict Amidst U.S. Concerns"
The Biden administration is actively working to prevent the escalation of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, following Israel's indication that it may launch a major military operation in response to border exchanges of fire. U.S. officials are concerned that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu might see an expanded conflict as beneficial for his political survival. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to discuss de-escalation steps in the region, while the U.S. has warned Israel against significant escalation due to the potential spread of conflict and the strain on Israeli military resources. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has launched rockets into Israel, and the U.S. is also concerned about the impact on the Lebanese Armed Forces, which have been hit by Israeli fire. The situation remains tense, with the potential for a broader conflict that could involve Iran and other regional forces.