Biden administration's challenges in deterring Mideast conflict and restoring calm

The Biden administration is working to prevent the conflict between Israel and Hamas from escalating into a wider regional war by deploying a U.S. aircraft carrier group to the eastern Mediterranean and rushing arms to Israel. The administration is also engaging in diplomatic efforts to deter Hezbollah and other actors from attacking Israel. The conflict has strained Biden's efforts to get Saudi Arabia to recognize Israel, and the administration has paused the Saudi initiative for now. The U.S. is providing military assistance to Israel and urging Israel's neighbors to stand aside as it confronts Hamas. The toll of the conflict has raised concerns, and the U.S. is working to ensure the safety of American citizens in the region.