US Defense Secretary Postpones Israel Visit Amid Rising Tensions with Lebanon
JERUSALEM, Sept. 20, 2024 -US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has postponed his scheduled visit to Israel, originally planned for September 22nd, due to escalating tensions along the Lebanese border, according tomultiple sources.
Two Israeli officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed to Axios news that the decision to postpone the visit was made in light of the escalatingconflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The officials stated that Austin was originally scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as visit other countries in the region.
The US has been actively engaged in diplomatic effortsto de-escalate the situation, sending both public and private messages to both Israel and Hezbollah urging them to cease further escalation. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking after a meeting with French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna in Paris on September 19th, echoed these calls for restraint, emphasizing the need to prevent further escalation along the Israeli-Lebanese border.
A spokesperson for the US Department of Defense confirmed the postponement, stating that Austin had spoken with Gallant on September 18th to discuss the situation in Lebanon and Gaza. During the call,Austin conveyed his support for Israel in the face of threats from Iran and Hezbollah, reaffirming the US commitment to deterring these groups.
The spokesperson further explained that Austin prioritized reaching an agreement for the release of hostages held by Hamas, achieving a ceasefire in Gaza, and resolving the border issues with Lebanon through diplomatic means.The spokesperson emphasized the importance of returning civilians to their homes.
While the US Department of Defense cited the ongoing tensions in the region as the primary reason for the postponement, a source familiar with the situation attributed the decision to scheduling conflicts with some regional leaders.
On September 19th, a Pentagon spokesperson,Brigadier General Pat Ryder, stated that there were currently no travel plans for the Defense Secretary that could be announced.
The postponement of Austin’s visit highlights the growing concern within the US administration regarding the potential for further escalation in the region. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has already resulted in significant casualties and heightened tensions, with thepotential to draw in other regional actors.
The US has been a key player in mediating between Israel and its neighbors, and the postponement of Austin’s visit underscores the urgency of finding a diplomatic solution to the current crisis.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation and finda path towards a peaceful resolution. The international community is watching closely, hoping to prevent the conflict from spiraling further out of control.
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