Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, during a visit to Washington, stated that while Israel does not seek war with Lebanon, it is prepared to inflict "massive damage" on Hezbollah if diplomatic efforts fail. Gallant emphasized Israel's capacity to cause significant harm in Lebanon should conflict arise and noted that Israel has killed more than 400 Hezbollah fighters in recent months.
Tensions between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah have escalated since the October 7 attack by Hamas, prompting an extensive Israeli retaliatory campaign in Gaza. Gallant's visit to Washington aimed to resolve issues regarding US weapons shipments, contrasting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s more confrontational stance. Gallant highlighted progress in discussions with US officials, including National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, particularly concerning force build-up and munition supply for Israel.
Despite Netanyahu's public accusations of the Biden administration delaying weapons deliveries, US officials denied significant pauses, noting only one shipment freeze while emphasizing continued support. The US has sent over $6.5 billion in weapons to Israel since October 7, with significant shipments continuing despite administrative misunderstandings.
The Biden administration remains in close talks with Israel and other regional actors to avoid further escalation, especially with rising tensions on the Israel-Lebanon border. Gallant reassured that Israel is trying to avoid an all-out war with Hezbollah, stating, "We do not want war, but we are preparing for every scenario."
Tensions between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah have escalated since the October 7 attack by Hamas, prompting an extensive Israeli retaliatory campaign in Gaza. Gallant's visit to Washington aimed to resolve issues regarding US weapons shipments, contrasting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s more confrontational stance. Gallant highlighted progress in discussions with US officials, including National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, particularly concerning force build-up and munition supply for Israel.
Despite Netanyahu's public accusations of the Biden administration delaying weapons deliveries, US officials denied significant pauses, noting only one shipment freeze while emphasizing continued support. The US has sent over $6.5 billion in weapons to Israel since October 7, with significant shipments continuing despite administrative misunderstandings.
The Biden administration remains in close talks with Israel and other regional actors to avoid further escalation, especially with rising tensions on the Israel-Lebanon border. Gallant reassured that Israel is trying to avoid an all-out war with Hezbollah, stating, "We do not want war, but we are preparing for every scenario."
