Mon Sep 23 22:40:59 UTC 2024: ## US Condemns Escalation Between Israel and Hezbollah, Seeks De-escalation
**NEW YORK** – The United States has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, urging both sides to de-escalate the situation. A senior State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the US does not support the recent escalation and is working with allies to prevent the conflict from broadening into a full-blown war.
The official’s comments came after Israel launched airstrikes on Monday against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of 492 people and displacing tens of thousands. This marked the deadliest day in Lebanon in decades.
While Israeli officials have justified the airstrikes as a means to force Hezbollah into a diplomatic solution, the US official has contradicted this stance, highlighting the administration’s focus on reducing tensions and breaking the cycle of violence.
The official expressed skepticism that further escalation would lead to a de-escalation and stabilization of the situation, indicating a disagreement with Israel’s approach.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to discuss the conflict on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly this week. The US has developed concrete ideas to prevent a wider war and will actively seek an “off-ramp” to de-escalate the situation.
Regarding the possibility of a ground invasion by Israel, the official declined to answer definitively, stating that such a move would not contribute to reducing tensions in the region.
The US is actively working with its allies to de-escalate the conflict and prevent it from escalating into a broader war.
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