Jalil Afridi
Washington, D.C.:— In a press briefing on Monday, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller disclosed that Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been actively communicating with several world leaders, including the Presidents of Egypt and Sudan, in an effort to address and de-escalate the volatile situation in the Middle East.
Miller emphasized that the U.S. has been acutely aware of the potential for a wider conflict since the tensions escalated on October 7. “Escalation is in no one’s interest,” Miller stated, reinforcing the U.S. stance on promoting stability in the region.
During the briefing, Miller addressed inquiries about the U.S. defense department’s recent comments on a “posture change,” describing it as part of a broader strategy aimed at restraint. This shift underscores the U.S. commitment to preventing further escalation. Miller also provided updates on the U.S. travel advisory for Lebanon, which remains at level 4, indicating a strong recommendation against travel to the country. He urged U.S. citizens currently in Lebanon to leave immediately due to the heightened risks. When questioned about the inevitability of a wider war,
Miller pointed to Iran’s critical role, stating, “It is a decision for Iran to make,” and reiterated the U.S.’s unwavering support for Israel. “The U.S. will defend Israel at all costs,” he affirmed, while also noting that the U.S. does not seek to escalate tensions further. Despite the recent death of Hamas’s chief mediator Sulaiman Haniyah, Miller confirmed that Qatar remains committed to facilitating peace talks. “We are thankful to Qatar for their continued efforts,” he said. Miller declined to comment on reports that Iran had sent a threatening message to Israel through a third country, opting not to discuss the matter further.
In response to a question about Ukraine, Miller stated that the U.S. has sanctioned Ukrainian attacks on Russian military installations within Russia, reflecting a significant policy stance amidst the ongoing conflict. Addressing rumors about Bangladeshi Prime Minister Hasina Wajid seeking asylum in the U.S. after fleeing to India, Miller stated that he was not aware of any such request. This briefing highlighted the complex and multifaceted nature of U.S. foreign policy as it navigates multiple global crises, emphasizing diplomacy and strategic defense measures to maintain international stability.
