The Media Line: Biden Confident Middle East War Can Be Averted Despite Iranian Strikes

US President Joe Biden expressed confidence that an “all-out war” in the Middle East could be avoided despite escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Biden said he does not believe a full-scale war is imminent, though he acknowledged that more efforts are needed to prevent the conflict from spiraling.

“I don’t believe there is going to be an all-out war. I think we can avoid it,” Biden said. However, he cautioned that “there is a lot to do yet.”

His remarks came after Israel responded to Hezbollah rocket attacks by intensifying airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold. This follows Iran’s missile strike on Israel earlier this week, Tehran’s largest assault on the country to date.

Biden’s comments about potential Israeli retaliation, including the targeting of Iran’s oil facilities, contributed to a surge in global oil prices as traders worried about possible supply disruptions.

While the US and other allies have called for a cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah, Biden stated that Israel’s options for responding to Tehran’s actions are still being discussed. “There is nothing going to happen today,” Biden said, urging caution but refusing to comment on specific military plans.

Meanwhile, Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon indicated that Israel is prepared to retaliate strongly, and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin affirmed Washington’s support for Israel’s security.