Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has urged a strong military response to neutralize Iran’s nuclear facilities. This comes after recent hostilities, including Iran’s launch of over 180 missiles targeting Israel.
However, US President Joe Biden has made it clear that the US will not support an Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear sites. Biden expressed the need for caution, warning that such actions could trigger severe consequences across the Middle East.
During a press briefing, Biden emphasized the importance of a “proportional” response while maintaining the US’s support for Israel’s security. He also mentioned that discussions would continue with Israeli officials to evaluate their next steps.
The missile strike by Iran was in retaliation for the deaths of two influential figures in the region, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah’s Hassan Nasrallah.
Despite the tensions, Israel’s defense systems successfully intercepted most of the missiles, although damage was reported near airbases.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised significant repercussions for Iran’s actions. Meanwhile, Bennett has called for a decisive strike on Iran’s nuclear program, urging that the regime’s capabilities be crippled.
Talks are ongoing between Israel and the US regarding potential military responses. Biden’s administration is pushing Israel to avoid attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities, cautioning that such an escalation could draw American forces into the conflict.
Israel is currently engaged in conflicts on multiple fronts, including combat with Hamas in Gaza and clashes with Hezbollah along the Lebanese border, where recent skirmishes resulted in casualties.
In response to Iran’s missile strikes, the US, along with other G7 nations, has agreed to implement additional sanctions on Iran. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for de-escalation, emphasizing the potential for devastating consequences if the situation worsens.
While Israel considers its next move, the international community remains watchful, concerned that any miscalculation could lead to a wider conflict in the Middle East.