Israeli Ambassador to U.S. Claims Strikes Averted Major War Escalation

Washington — Michael Herzog, the Israeli ambassador to the United States, stated on Sunday that he believes the recent military operations by Israel successfully prevented a potential escalation into a major war. This assertion follows intense exchanges of fire between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah, raising concerns about a wider regional conflict.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted a preemptive strike in southern Lebanon, citing the need to avert a larger attack. In response, Hezbollah launched over 300 missiles and drones into Israeli territory, sparking fierce conflict. Israeli defense systems engaged and intercepted several rockets aimed at northern Israel. Hezbollah’s retaliation came as they mourned the loss of a senior military commander, Fouad Shukur, who was assassinated the previous month. The group reported the death of three of its fighters during the clashes, while Israel confirmed one soldier was killed and two others suffered injuries.

The combat, which included heavy exchanges of fire, seemed to subside by Sunday morning after a series of confrontations that had built up over previous months.

“The threat is still there,” Herzog remarked on “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan,” emphasizing the need for a diplomatic resolution to tensions with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

He expressed hope for diplomacy, stating, “We give a chance to diplomacy, and we hope it works.” Herzog also shared his belief that a direct attack on Israel by Iran could be avoided for the time being, attributing this to strong deterrent messaging from both Israel and the United States.

“I think the main reason for that was deterrent messages from Israel and the U.S., along with a very strong U.S. presence in the region which communicates that they can indeed deter any aggression,” Herzog commented.

While the U.S. did not directly participate in the military actions against Hezbollah, it has maintained communication with Israeli officials. General CQ Brown, the highest-ranking military officer in the United States, is currently in the Middle East. Following meetings with Egyptian officials in Cairo, he is expected to arrive in Israel later on Sunday.

Sources informed CBS News that the U.S., along with Qatar, Israel, and other relevant parties, are working collectively to convey messages to Hezbollah and Iran urging them to de-escalate tensions. It was also reported that the Qatari Prime Minister is scheduled to visit Tehran on Monday to brief Iranian leaders on current diplomatic efforts concerning Gaza and to discourage any potential Iranian aggression towards Israel.

Herzog highlighted that part of General Brown’s visit aims to ensure that the situation remains under control. He reiterated the importance of the U.S. posture in the region, stating, “The U.S. presence is very strong” and has been crucial in deterring Iranian actions.

“We do not seek war, and we don’t believe that they seek war,” Herzog continued. “However, there is room for miscalculation.”

In recent weeks, U.S. officials have expressed growing concerns about rising tensions across the region, particularly following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7. The Biden administration has been working to prevent a broader conflict amidst ongoing discussions regarding hostages and potential ceasefires in Cairo, although expectations for immediate resolutions remain low.

“We had constructive talks in Egypt a few days ago,” Herzog stated. “We are coordinating closely with the U.S. administration and are waiting to see if Hamas is willing to engage in meaningful discussions.”

The precarious situation underlines the volatile nature of the region, with both sides wary of miscalculations that could lead to wider conflict.

Source: CBS News