US says all-out war not the way to return people to homes in northern Israel

Israel cannot ensure the safe return of residents to their homes in the northern region by engaging in a full-scale conflict with Hezbollah or Iran, stated John Kirby, the White House national security spokesperson, on Sunday.

On the same day, Israel targeted additional sites in Lebanon, intensifying its offensive against Hezbollah following the death of the group’s leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. Israel aims to secure its northern territories from Hezbollah’s rocket attacks and facilitate the return of thousands of displaced individuals.

Kirby emphasized to CNN, “Engaging in an all-out war with Hezbollah, especially with Iran, is not the solution. To ensure the safe and sustainable return of those individuals, we believe pursuing a diplomatic approach is essential.” The United States, a longstanding ally and primary arms supplier to Israel, is closely monitoring Hezbollah’s response to the leadership change and is in ongoing discussions with Israeli officials regarding the appropriate next steps.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry reports that over 1,000 Lebanese individuals have lost their lives and approximately 6,000 have been injured in the last two weeks. The government has indicated that around one million people, which constitutes one-fifth of the population, have been displaced from their homes.

Kirby stated, “We have been clear that our perspective on tactical execution regarding civilian protection may differ from theirs,” while emphasizing that U.S. support for Israel’s security remains unwavering.

On Saturday, Iran announced its intention to safeguard its national and security interests, although it did not provide specific details. The country has requested a meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address Israel’s actions.

Kirby remarked, “We have noted the statements emerging from Tehran and will monitor their subsequent actions.”