On Monday’s broadcast of MSNBC’s “Andrea Mitchell Reports,” host Andrea Mitchell expressed concerns about the Biden-Harris administration’s mixed message on Lebanon. Mitchell noted that the administration had initially failed to secure a ceasefire at the United Nations, but is now calling for a halt in attacks on Beirut. However, the administration is also justifying Israel’s strikes on Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon, where surface-to-surface missiles are believed to be stockpiled.
Mitchell discussed this issue with NBC News Chief International Analyst and former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Adm. James Stavridis (Ret.). Stavridis agreed with Mitchell that the situation in Lebanon is complex, and emphasized that the biggest concern is the large stockpile of surface-to-surface missiles. Stavridis suggested that targeting these missiles is a more effective way to address the issue, rather than attacking Beirut.
According to Stavridis, it’s not necessary to go into Beirut to knock down two-thirds of the missiles. He implied that Israel’s strategy should focus on targeting the missile stockpiles directly, rather than expanding the conflict into the city. Mitchell’s conversation with Stavridis highlighted the difficulties of navigating the complex web of interests and alliances in the region, and the need for a clear and consistent approach to address the crisis in Lebanon.
