US Says It Cannot Force Israel to Halt Strikes in Lebanon

Washington Limits Its Role to Influence, Not Control

Beirut, July 21, 2025 — The United States cannot compel Israel to change its military strategy in Lebanon, U.S. special envoy Thomas Barrack said during a press conference in Beirut on Monday. His remarks came amid Israel’s ongoing cross-border operations against Hezbollah, which have raised fears of a wider regional conflict.

“The US has no business in trying to compel Israel to do anything. America can only influence,” Barrack stated.

Ongoing Israeli Strikes Spark Global Concern

Despite repeated calls from the international community for a ceasefire, Israel has continued its military actions in southern Lebanon. These operations, primarily targeting Hezbollah positions, have resulted in growing civilian casualties and displacement along the border regions.

Humanitarian organizations and United Nations officials have urged immediate de-escalation to avoid further loss of life and regional instability.

No US Military Expansion in the Region

Barrack made clear that the United States does not plan to increase its military footprint in the region. Addressing questions about possible American intervention, he said:

“We are not going to have more boots on the ground in an adversarial nature anywhere.”

This statement reinforces the Biden administration’s stance of diplomatic engagement over direct military involvement, even as tensions escalate in the Middle East.

Calls for Ceasefire Continue Amid Limited US Leverage

Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, but Barrack’s remarks highlight the limitations of Washington’s leverage over its key ally. While the U.S. continues to urge restraint and back-channel diplomacy, it appears increasingly unwilling to exert pressure through force or sanctions.

Analysts warn that the lack of effective mediation could prolong the conflict, threatening broader regional security and undermining U.S. credibility in peace-building efforts.