Biden Urges Against Full-Scale War in Lebanon During UN Address

In a recent address at the United Nations General Assembly, President Joe Biden expressed firm opposition to a “full-scale war” in Lebanon, advocating for a swift ceasefire amid escalating tensions in the region. He underscored the lack of benefits to anyone from a potential conflict, while efforts for diplomatic solutions continue alongside criticism of broader hostilities involving Hezbollah and Israel. The situation remains precarious, with significant concerns regarding a possible extension of the Israel-Hamas conflict to Lebanon and beyond.

During a keynote address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 24, President Joe Biden articulated a strong opposition to the prospect of a “full-scale war” in Lebanon, underscoring the need for a prompt cessation of hostilities. Biden emphasized that such a conflict would not benefit anyone, particularly as tensions escalated with ongoing Israeli military operations in Lebanon, which the United Nations deemed perilously close to a breakdown. Biden stated, “Full-scale war is not in anyone’s interest. Even as the situation has escalated, a diplomatic solution is still possible,” reflecting the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution amid rising threats of regional instability. This speech marked Biden’s concluding address as President at the UN assembly, amid widespread apprehension regarding the potential for war in the Middle East. He further reflected on his career, declaring, “I decided, after 50 years of public service, it’s time for a new generation of leadership to take my nation forward. It’s your people that matter the most.” In his remarks, Biden reiterated calls for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, revealing the ongoing efforts by the United States, alongside Qatar and Egypt, to mediate a solution for the hostilities. He also condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions in Ukraine, stating that the war had ultimately “failed at his core aim.” United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed Biden’s sentiments, warning that the situation in Gaza could ignite broader conflict in the region. Guterres stated, “Look no further than Lebanon. We should all be alarmed by the escalation. Lebanon is at the brink. The people of Lebanon — the people of Israel — and the people of the world — cannot afford Lebanon to become another Gaza.” Despite these concerns, criticisms were raised at the assembly regarding perceived bias, with Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, denouncing the applause for Palestinians and the silence regarding Israeli hostages as hypocrisy. The backdrop of this discourse is a year-long conflict that began with a significant assault by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, which has now stemmed a widespread crisis threatening to extend throughout the Middle East. Amid this turmoil, Israeli strikes on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon have resulted in over 500 casualties, marking a devastating escalation in violence.

The current situation in Lebanon and the broader Middle East has been characterized by significant tension, primarily fueled by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which erupted after an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel. This conflict has had reverberating effects beyond Palestine, with Lebanon increasingly becoming a focal point of concern due to Hezbollah’s involvement. President Biden’s speech at the United Nations comes at a critical juncture when the international community is wary of another war in the region, particularly one that could parallel the devastation seen in Gaza. The United Nations and other influential bodies are urgently advocating for diplomatic resolutions to avert further escalation of violence.

In conclusion, President Biden’s address at the United Nations highlighted the pressing necessity for a diplomatic approach to prevent a full-scale conflict in Lebanon amidst escalating tensions in the region. His cautions against the dangers of war resonate with the UN’s assessment of Lebanon as being on the brink of crisis. As negotiations for a ceasefire continue, the need for international cooperation remains paramount to restore stability and peace in a region fraught with danger.

Original Source: international.la-croix.com