New York: US President Joe Biden has emphasized the United States’ commitment to preventing a full-scale war in the Middle East. Biden made his remarks in the final address at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79).
Biden addressed the rising conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, stressing that, “full-scale war is not in anyone’s interest, but the Israel-Lebanon crisis is now on the brink,” and urged for a diplomatic solution.
Biden also said that, “The rise of violence against innocent Palestinians on the West Bank, and the need to set the conditions for a better future, which featured a two-state solution, where the world, where Israel enjoys security and peace and full recognition and normalized relations with all its neighbors, where Palestinians live in security, dignity, and self-determination in a state of their own.”
President Biden underscored the ceasefire and hostage deal put forth by Qatar and Egypt, which the UN Security Council endorsed and stated that, “Now is the time for the parties to finalize its terms, bring the hostages home,” adding that this would help put an end to the suffering in Gaza, and the war.
But the Presidents’ words were only being heard in the hall but not in action. Lebanese health officials reported over 500 deaths due to Israel’s bombardment. In response, Hezbollah heavily affected by Israel’s recent pager attacks earlier, launched hundreds of rockets into Northern Israel, causing significant damage to houses and streets.
"I call on all to protect civilians & civilian infrastructure. All efforts must be devoted to a diplomatic solution."
– @antonioguterres expresses grave concern at the escalating situation in Israel and Lebanon, including civilians deaths & injuries.https://t.co/sHj8GCip4L pic.twitter.com/pNlHdTfwGv
— United Nations (@UN) September 23, 2024
Earlier at the UNGA79, Antonio Guterres also raised his concern about the ongoing war tensions. Guterres said that, “I call on all to protect civilians & civilian infrastructure. All efforts must be devoted to a diplomatic solution.” The U.S. is working to prevent further escalation and pushing for a diplomatic solution, though both sides seem unwilling or unable to reach an agreement.
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