US President Joe Biden urges restraint in response to Iranian attack on Israel
In a critical dialogue concerning recent hostilities, US President Joe Biden communicated to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the United States would not participate in any counter-strike against Iran. This conversation, held on April 13, follows a severe missile and drone attack by Iran aimed at Israel, which raised significant concerns among US officials about the potential escalation into a regional conflict.
During their discussion, President Biden praised Israel’s ability to intercept the Iranian attack, which involved over 300 drones and missiles, marking it as Iran’s first direct assault on Israeli territory. The US President emphasized this as a demonstration of Israel’s military and diplomatic strength, advising Prime Minister Netanyahu to view the event as a substantial victory. “You got a win. Take the win,” Biden reportedly told Netanyahu, highlighting the unsuccessful nature of the Iranian offensive and Israel’s showcased defense capabilities.
White House national security spokesperson John Kirby further underscored this sentiment by pointing out Israel’s military superiority. Kirby noted to CNN that the incident not only proved Israel’s robust defense but also its diplomatic prowess, backed by international support against threats to its security. This response by Israel sends a firm message to its adversaries regarding its capacity to safeguard national security effectively.
Reflecting the delicate balance in the region, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has requested that Israel notify the US prior to any potential military retaliation against Iran. This step is seen as part of a broader strategy to manage tensions and prevent escalation. The attack by Iran was reportedly in retaliation for an airstrike in Syria on April 1, which resulted in the deaths of seven members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a claim that Israel has neither confirmed nor denied.
The US’s stance, as articulated by President Biden, aims to mitigate further escalation and maintain regional stability. By advocating for a measured response, the US is positioning itself as a mediator capable of influencing peace and preventing further conflict in a volatile region. This approach underscores the complexity of geopolitical relations in the Middle East, where military actions carry significant implications for regional and global peace.