US President Joe Biden has warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against escalating regional tensions amid a risk of war, according to a report. In a “tough” phone call on Thursday, Biden told Netanyahu to “stop escalating tension in the region” and “move immediately toward a Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal.”

The White House stated that during the call, Biden and Netanyahu discussed US military deployments to support Israel against various threats, including ballistic missiles and drones. Biden reaffirmed his commitment to Israel’s security against all threats from Iran.

However, Biden also warned Netanyahu that if he escalates again, he “shouldn’t count on the US to bail him out,” according to an anonymous US official. This statement suggests that the US may not provide unconditional support to Israel if tensions rise again.

Meanwhile, there are reports that the US is poised to move resources to the Middle East if needed to defend itself and its allies, including Israel. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin informed his Israeli counterpart about Washington’s “future defensive force posture changes” in the Middle East.

The situation in the region remains volatile, with nearly 39,500 Palestinians killed since Israel launched its offensive on the Gaza Strip last year. The conflict has sparked increased regional tensions across the Middle East, with the latest escalation earlier this week when Haniyeh was assassinated during a visit to Iran.

Despite international organizations, including the UN, and regional countries urging a ceasefire in Gaza and de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Netanyahu has vowed to “exact a heavy price” for any attack on Israel.

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