WASHINGTON/TEL AVIV, 21 June (H.S.): The United States has urged Israel to refrain from escalating its military operations in Lebanon to ensure that crucial negotiations with Iran in Switzerland are not disrupted, according to Israeli media reports.

According to Türkiye's Anadolu Agency, citing a report by Israel's Channel 13, an unnamed Israeli diplomat said the US administration had conveyed a clear message to Israel that no military action should be taken that could jeopardise the ongoing diplomatic process with Iran.

The report added that Washington also stressed that any military operation capable of derailing negotiations with Tehran should not be carried out without prior coordination with the United States.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military has reportedly been instructed to significantly reduce its air and ground operations, maintain troops in areas currently under its control in Lebanon, and restrict military action solely to situations involving an immediate threat.

However, the report also stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the military to remain in the occupied areas for as long as necessary and to respond forcefully to any attacks.

Speaking briefly to reporters before departing for Switzerland to participate in the negotiations, US Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism about the diplomatic efforts. I hope we can make progress on the nuclear issue and the ceasefire in Lebanon. These are two extremely important matters that require our full attention, he said.

When asked whether the ongoing conflict in Lebanon could undermine diplomatic efforts, Vance replied that, Despite the headlines, the situation is improving and the intensity of the fighting has decreased. We must manage this process carefully to ensure the security of both Israel and Lebanon.

Vance further said that achieving a lasting ceasefire would require preventing a prolonged conflict, adding that the United States is working towards that objective.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar