U.S. backs Israel's actions against Hezbollah while urging limited military engagement in Lebanon

The Biden administration is expressing limited support for Israel's military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon. This includes backing Israel's operations aimed at weakening Hezbollah and facilitating its withdrawal from southern Lebanon, following the failure to achieve a cease-fire. U.S. officials emphasize the need for Israel's actions to be limited and for the implementation of U.N. Resolution 1701, which calls for Israel's withdrawal and the establishment of a buffer zone. The resolution has not been fully enforced since its adoption in 2006. Lebanon faces significant challenges, including a political vacuum and economic crisis, with Hezbollah maintaining a strong influence. The U.S. aims to strengthen Lebanese state institutions and support a new presidential election, but critics question the effectiveness of these efforts amid ongoing violence.