US Plans Push for Israeli Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon amid Regional Crisis

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in over 60,000 civilian deaths, with accusations of genocide against Israel by various international voices, including former Israeli officials and regional diplomats. Iran and Egypt have jointly called for Israel's immediate withdrawal from southern Lebanon, warning that continued occupation destabilizes the region and exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They emphasize the need for unified political and economic pressure on Israel and highlight the importance of maintaining internal Lebanese political stability to avoid further tensions. Meanwhile, U.S. Republican Congressman Darrell Issa stated that Washington would push Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon if the Lebanese Armed Forces can secure the entire country, linking Israeli withdrawal to Hezbollah's disarmament efforts. This U.S. position reflects ongoing complexities, as Hezbollah refuses to disarm until Israel fully withdraws and ends its attacks, underscoring the fragile balance and competing demands in the region. The Biden administration has continued to support Israel diplomatically, including vetoing multiple UN ceasefire resolutions, highlighting bipartisan U.S. backing despite domestic and international criticism.