Biden Calls for Ceasefire Amid Rising Tensions in Lebanon

U.S. President Joe Biden urged for a ceasefire in Lebanon, amidst potential Israeli ground incursion preparations against Hezbollah militants. Amidst ongoing violence, Biden and his aides are pushing for a diplomatic solution to allow displaced individuals to return home. Concerns remain about a broader regional conflict.

U.S. President Joe Biden called for a ceasefire in Lebanon on Monday, even as a U.S. official indicated that Israeli troop deployments suggest a ground incursion against Hezbollah militants could be imminent. Biden expressed comfort with Israel's potential halting of preparations.

Several senior aides echoed Biden's ceasefire call, advocating for a diplomatic resolution to the violence that has displaced countless Israelis and Lebanese. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed Washington's commitment to collaboration with global partners for a peaceful solution.

A U.S. official, under anonymity, noted observed Israeli troop movements implying a possible ground incursion into Lebanon but refrained from providing further details. This comes after two weeks of Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah leaders, including Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.

Biden's administration is concerned that Nasrallah's assassination and further Israeli military actions could spark a larger regional conflict. The U.S. envoy to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, emphasized continued diplomacy to defuse violence in Lebanon and Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)