U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his opposition to any attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities and urged Israel to respond “proportionately” to Tehran’s rocket attacks. This stance comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that Iran would “pay a heavy price” after it launched over 180 rockets at Israel on Tuesday. Biden also emphasized that more sanctions would be imposed on Tehran, cautioning that further escalation could endanger both American and Israeli interests.
President Biden reinforced on Wednesday that he does not support attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, following rocket attacks by Iran on Israel. He urged Tel Aviv to react “proportionately” to this regional adversary. Biden’s remarks followed Iran’s launch of over 180 ballistic missiles at Israel on Tuesday, which he previously described as “futile.” On the other hand, Prime Minister Netanyahu has threatened severe repercussions for Iran following the attack.
In comments to reporters before boarding Air Force One, Biden mentioned that he would discuss with G7 allies the potential steps Israel might take, asserting that while there is a consensus on Israel’s right to respond, it is crucial that the response be “proportionate.”
Some analysts anticipate a more severe Israeli response this time, possibly targeting Iran’s nuclear or oil infrastructure, while others believe Washington might seek to temper Israel’s actions to prevent a full-scale regional war. When asked about supporting a strike on Iranian nuclear sites, Biden responded with a definitive “no.”
Biden also stated that further sanctions against Iran would be imposed, noting that he would soon be in touch with Netanyahu to discuss developments. He remarked, “It is clear that Iran has strayed far from the right path.”
According to a source familiar with the discussions in Washington, Israeli officials have informed their American counterparts that they are still determining the appropriate targets and means to respond to the Iranian attack. Although Israel might not feel an immediate need to retaliate due to the successful interception of the attack, it is likely not to delay too long, to maintain the deterrent effect of its response.
Simultaneously, as regional tensions escalate, the Biden administration continues to work towards a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, repeatedly affirming that such an agreement is “near.”
On the domestic political front, Biden faces increasing criticism for U.S. military support to Israel, a challenge also faced by his Vice President Kamala Harris in her presidential campaign within the Democratic Party.
During a webinar organized by the Carnegie Foundation on Wednesday, Kurt Campbell, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, stressed that Iran’s actions were “completely irresponsible” and warranted an “appropriate response.” However, he also expressed U.S. concerns that any significant escalation could threaten the strategic interests of both America and Israel.
On Wednesday, Iran declared that its rocket attack on Israel had concluded unless further provocations occur. Israel regards the Iranian nuclear program as an existential threat, despite Tehran’s assurances that it does not seek to develop nuclear weapons.
