Diplomatic Push Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized the acute risk of escalation in the Middle East as tensions rise between Israel and Iran-aligned Hezbollah. Washington and allies are working tirelessly to prevent full-scale conflict, leveraging diplomacy as the best course. Airstrikes and hostilities are intensifying, making ceasefire efforts crucial.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated on Wednesday that the risk of escalation in the Middle East is "acute," underscoring the continuous efforts of Washington and its allies to prevent a full-scale war between Israel and Iranian-backed Hezbollah.

Speaking at a meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) officials in New York, Blinken asserted, "We've been working tirelessly with partners to avoid a full-blown war and to move to a diplomatic process that would allow Israelis and Lebanese alike to go back to their homes."

Israel escalated its airstrikes in Lebanon, shooting down a Hezbollah missile aimed at Mossad headquarters. As Gaza remains under relentless assault, the death toll rises and displacement increases, heightening the urgency for a diplomatic ceasefire, according to U.S. officials.

(With inputs from agencies.)