Biden envoy in Israel as northern border tensions flare

Israel

A US envoy arrived in Israel to urge calm amidst heightened tensions with Lebanon, as Hezbollah intensified attacks following the killing of a senior commander in an Israeli strike. Israeli officials reported over 5,000 projectiles fired by Hezbollah since the Gaza conflict began.

US Presidential Special Envoy Amos Hochstein met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, emphasizing the need for de-escalation. Israeli government spokesman David Mencer confirmed the meeting, highlighting ongoing defensive actions against Hezbollah aggression.

Hochstein also met Israeli President Isaac Herzog to discuss Hezbollah's recent attacks instigated by Iran. The Lebanese group claims more than 2,100 military operations against Israel since hostilities resumed, escalating after the death of commander Taleb Abdallah.

Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari warned of potential wider escalation due to Hezbollah's increased aggression. The United Nations has expressed concern and cautioned against actions leading to further escalation in the region.