“Escalating Conflict: Israel Launches New Airstrikes on Lebanon Amid Calls for US Intervention”

**** Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon entered their third day on Wednesday, intensifying a conflict that has already displaced an estimated half a million people, according to Lebanese officials. Families affected by the violence are seeking refuge in makeshift shelters, vehicles, parks, and along the coastline, as Israel has indicated that its military operations will persist. The situation has drawn urgent calls for restraint from global leaders. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that Lebanon is on the brink of disaster, emphasizing that the people of Lebanon, Israel, and the international community cannot afford for Lebanon to descend into a situation akin to Gaza. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden expressed hope for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis. Lebanon's Foreign Minister, , stated that only the United States, Israel's primary ally and major arms supplier, has the influence necessary to pressure Israel into de-escalating the conflict. He underscored the critical role the U.S. could play in stabilizing the situation in the Middle East. As the conflict continues to unfold, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can prevent further humanitarian crises.