Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to request approval from President Joe Biden for a potential military strike on Lebanon if diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the north prove unsuccessful, according to Israeli media reports.
President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met at the White House on Thursday afternoon. This meeting followed Netanyahu’s address to Congress on Wednesday, which ignited protests in Washington, DC, with some demonstrations including instances of antisemitism or pro-Hamas rhetoric. The White House has condemned these protests.
Netanyahu’s potential request for a green light to attack Lebanon underscores the heightened state of alert in the region. Israel’s northern border has seen increasing tension, and the prime minister is reportedly prepared to take decisive military action should diplomatic measures fail to maintain calm.
The ongoing discussions between the U.S. and Israel highlight the delicate balance of seeking peace while preparing for possible conflict. Both leaders are expected to address these critical issues, considering the broader implications for regional stability and security.