Tensions rise as US urges diplomacy in wake of Hezbollah blasts

The US State Department warned on Thursday all parties involved in the Middle East conflict against escalating tensions after the latest wave of explosions of Hezbollah members' communication devices, emphasizing that Washington's priority is a diplomatic solution.

- We will continue to stand by Israel's right to defend itself, but we don't want to see any party escalate this conflict - said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.

Appealing to calm the situation, which reached a critical point due to the latest wave of explosions of Hezbollah members' communication devices in Lebanon, Miller noted that although the US seeks to reduce the tension, "ultimately, yes, every country is responsible, and every entity is responsible for the actions that they take."

Miller refused to comment on rumours that Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin postponed a planned trip to Israel this week. He only indicated that Washington would continue talks with Israel.

Explosions of pagers, phones, and radios of Hezbollah, who are based in Lebanon, caused the death of 37 members of this extremist group, and about 3,000 people were injured.

Hezbollah declared that "all red lines" have been crossed and announced retaliation.