Biden warns of ‘all-out war’ in Middle East,urges cease-fire in Lebanon

U.S. President Joe Biden warned on Wednesday of the risk of an “all-out war” in Middle East while expressing cautious optimism for a potential settlement in the conflict-ridden region.

Speaking on ABC’s “The View,” Biden’s remarks came amid heightened tensions, as Israel placed troops on alert for possible action in Lebanon and continued its military operations in Gaza.

“An all-out war is possible,” Biden stated. However, he emphasized that there remains an opportunity for a settlement that could significantly alter the dynamics of the region.

He hinted at the possibility of a cease-fire in Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes against Hezbollah have resulted in over 600 casualties this week. “There is a possibility—though I don’t want to exaggerate it—that if we can achieve a cease-fire in Lebanon, it might also influence the situation in the West Bank,” Biden noted.

Since late August, Israel has conducted deadly raids in the occupied West Bank, targeting what it describes as Palestinian militants. Biden acknowledged the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where efforts to establish a cease-fire following the Hamas attacks on October 7 have stalled.

“I’m using every bit of energy with my team to get this done,” Biden said, highlighting a strong desire for change in the region. He also urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reconsider his opposition to an independent Palestinian state, asserting, “I don’t agree with his position. There needs to be a two-state solution.”