US envoy calls for ‘diplomatic solution’ to Lebanon-Israel escalation

By Wassim Saifeldine

BEIRUT (AA) – US envoy to Lebanon Amos Hochstein on Thursday called for a diplomatic solution to growing tensions along the Lebanese-Israeli border.

Hochstein held talks with caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati in Beirut on developments in southern Lebanon amid an exchange of cross-border fire between Hezbollah and Israeli forces.

“We need to find a diplomatic solution that will allow for the Lebanese people to return to their homes in south Lebanon... as the people of Israel need to be able to return to their homes in their north,” he told reporters.

“We’re living in a crisis moment where we would like to see a diplomatic solution and I believe that both sides prefer a diplomatic solution,” he said. “It’s our job to get one.”

Mikati, for his part, called for reaching a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip and halting Israeli violations of Lebanon’s sovereignty.

“We want peace and stability through upholding international resolutions,” he added.

The US envoy also held talks with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in Beirut to discuss the situation in Lebanon.

“The Israeli government said it prefers a diplomatic solution and I believe that this is what both parties, in Israel and Lebanon, want,” he said.

Tensions have escalated along Lebanon’s border with Israel since the Israeli army launched a deadly military offensive on the Gaza Strip following Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack.

Over 190 people have been killed, including at least 30 civilians, since the cross-border clashes first erupted in October, according to figures released by Hezbollah and Lebanese media.

*Writing by Rania Abu Shamala