Washington Seeks to Curb Israel's Response to Iran

Washington Seeks to Curb Israel's Response to Iran
The US administration's refusal to target Iranian nuclear and oil facilities indicates Washington's awareness of the danger of escalating the confrontation with Tehran to levels that may spiral out of
October 16, 2024, 11:40 pm

الضربة الصاروخية الإيرانية

Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, the United States is striving to curb Israel's potential response to the recent Iranian missile attack. US officials have confirmed that President Joe Biden's administration has received assurances from Israel not to target Iranian nuclear or oil sites, in an attempt to avoid dangerous escalation in the region.

These American moves highlight Washington's fears of the consequences of any miscalculated Israeli response to Iran. President Biden explicitly stated his rejection of striking Iranian oil or nuclear facilities, warning against major escalation while affirming Israel's right to defend itself.

US sources indicate that sending a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile system to Israel, along with about 100 soldiers to operate it, aims to calm Israeli fears of a potential Iranian retaliatory response. Washington hopes this support will help dissuade Israel from taking actions that could lead to uncontrolled escalation.

Despite repeated Israeli statements about a "precise and painful" response to Iran, American pressure seems clear in trying to direct this response away from vital Iranian facilities. These efforts reflect Washington's recognition of the danger of targeting Iran's nuclear or oil infrastructure and the serious regional and international consequences that could result.

On the other hand, Iran continues to issue counter-threats, warning of a "stronger response" to any Israeli aggression. These statements highlight the fragility of the security situation in the region and the ease with which it could slide into a spiral of escalating violence.

Eyes remain focused on how Israel will balance its desire to respond to the Iranian attack with American pressure to limit the scope of this response. The timing of the potential Israeli response, expected before the US presidential elections, also raises questions about its potential impact on the American political scene and US-Israeli relations.

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