WASHINGTON: President Joe Biden and senior members of his national security team, aiming to prevent a wider regional conflict following a barrage of Iranian missiles and drones targeting Israel, have informed their counterparts that the US will not engage in offensive actions against Iran, according to US officials familiar with the situation.
In a late Saturday conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden termed Israel’s successful interception of the Iranian attack as a significant victory, suggesting that further Israeli response was unnecessary.
Biden assured the Israeli prime minister that Saturday’s events should be considered a success due to Israel’s effective defense against the Iranian assault, as reported by a senior administration official.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby emphasized on Sunday that Israel’s ability to avert substantial damage demonstrated its military and diplomatic strength, refuting Iran’s claims of achieving its objectives from attacks.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin requested Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to notify the US in advance of any potential response to the Iranian attack, as stated by another US official.
While stressing to their counterparts that Israel retains the final decision on responding to Iran, Biden is working to prevent further escalation.
On Sunday, Biden planned to convene a meeting with fellow Group of Seven leaders to discuss a united diplomatic response, prioritizing non-military actions to reduce the risk of a broader conflict.
Biden’s statement following his conversation with Netanyahu highlighted Israel’s capacity to defend against unprecedented attacks, sending a clear message to adversaries.
The aftermath of Iran’s actions adds to existing tensions between the US and Israel over regional conflicts. The attack from Iranian territory escalates hostilities, potentially prompting political pressure in Israel for a response.
Kirby said that the attack need not trigger a broader regional conflict, noting the US and Israel’s awareness of Iran’s intentions beforehand.
Israel’s Defense Minister Gallant cautioned that the confrontation with Iran is ongoing, with response options to be discussed in Israel’s war cabinet meeting.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps Commander, Hossein Salami, warned of direct Iranian retaliation if Israel responds, suggesting a new dynamic in the conflict.
