Blinken Urges Middle East Parties to De-escalate Amid Growing War Fears
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has issued an urgent call for all parties involved in the escalating Middle East tensions to take steps to ease them, warning of a potentially wider regional conflict.
Blinken’s call comes amid mounting fears following the recent killings of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamas’ political leader in Iran. The assassinations have triggered a series of retaliatory strikes and threats, raising concerns about a potential escalation into a full-scale confrontation.
“We are engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much round-the-clock, with a very simple message: All parties must refrain from escalation. All parties must take steps to ease tensions,” Blinken was quoted as saying by a number of media outlets.
He added that the mounting tensions would only lead to more violence and instability, serving no one’s interests.
The Secretary of State specifically urged the parties to reach a ceasefire in Gaza, arguing that it would not only bring a halt to the ongoing conflict but also open possibilities for more lasting peace in the region. The sides shoud work together towards a resolution rather than seeking reasons for delay or rejection of a potential peace deal, he has added.
Blinken’s comments followed a meeting of the US National Security team in the Situation Room to discuss the Middle East crisis. President Joe Biden also spoke with King Abdullah II of Jordan, with both leaders emphasizing the need for de-escalation through an immediate ceasefire and hostage release accord.
Meanwhile, top US and Israeli military leaders met in Tel Aviv to discuss defense cooperation and strategies to counter Iran and its allies.
The recent drone attack launched by Hezbollah against northern Israel, which injured two Israeli soldiers, further deteriorated the situation in the Middle East. While the attack was described as a response to Israeli strikes in Lebanon, it has not yet escalated into a more intense retaliation for the killing of Hezbollah top commander Fouad Shukur.
Washington is actively working with international partners to prevent a wider conflict. However, the situation remains volatile, US officials say, adding that all parties involved will need to exercise restraint and prioritize diplomacy to de-escalate the situation and prevent further bloodshed.
