**Biden Calls for Avoidance of Full-Scale War in Middle East Amid Escalating Tensions**

DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. (AP) - On Sunday, President Joe Biden expressed concerns about the escalating violence in the Middle East and underscored the urgent need to prevent an all-out war in the region.

"We really have to avoid it," Biden remarked to reporters while boarding Air Force One for Washington. He indicated plans to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but did not specify a timeline for the discussion.

The president's comments came in the wake of deadly Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon that resulted in dozens of casualties. These airstrikes marked part of a strategic campaign targeting Hezbollah, which has faced dismantling of its command structure. Notably, the leader of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, was reportedly killed in one of the recent Israeli attacks.

John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman, elaborated on the situation earlier on Sunday. He confirmed that Israel's airstrikes have significantly disrupted Hezbollah's leadership but warned that the group will likely attempt to rebuild its command swiftly. "I think people are safer without him walking around," Kirby said, referring to Nasrallah's death. However, he emphasized the necessity of monitoring Hezbollah's efforts to fill the leadership void.

In addition to military confrontations, the conflict has prompted large-scale evacuations. Tens of thousands of people have been displaced near the Israel-Lebanon border due to relentless rocket volleys from Hezbollah and retaliatory strikes by Israel. Amidst this humanitarian crisis, the Biden administration is striving to secure a negotiated resolution to enable civilians to return home and mitigate the chances of a broader regional conflict.

The White House maintains its advocacy for a 21-day temporary cease-fire proposed by the U.S., France, and other nations during last week's U.N. General Assembly. "If you want to get those folks back home safely and sustainably, we believe that a diplomatic path is the right course," Kirby stated during an appearance on CNN's "State of the Union."

As the situation evolves, international efforts are intensifying to de-escalate tensions and find a peaceful solution to the ongoing conflict.