The United States favors a diplomatic solution to the situation between Israel and Lebanon, despite its commitment to assist the Jewish state if the conflict escalates. This was stated by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the press conference held in Manila following the results of the "2+2" format meeting.

"And I don't believe that a fight is inevitable. We'd like to see things resolved in a diplomatic fashion,” Austin said.

Regardless of whether this happens or not, Israel is capable of conducting military operations in the Gaza Strip and at the same time in Lebanon. Israel is doing everything to protect itself, added the US Secretary of Defense.

Austin added that the US is committed to providing Israel with the assistance it needs to defend itself, but the best scenario they would like to see would be a diplomatic settlement of all issues.