US President Joe Biden urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to minimize civilian harm as Israel mulls its response to Iran's recent missile strike. This call comes amid mounting pressure from Washington not to strike Iran's oil or nuclear facilities prior to the US presidential elections. The two leaders agreed to stay in close contact over the next few days, and Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the call. Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has pledged that their attack on Iran will be "deadly, precise, and surprising." The leaders also discussed Israel's offensive against Iranian ally Hezbollah in Lebanon.
US, Israel Balance Concerns amid Iran Tensions
Amid escalating tensions with Iran, US President Joe Biden has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to minimize civilian harm in any potential Israeli response to Iran's recent missile strike.
Background:
Tensions between Iran and Israel have been simmering for years, primarily over Iran's nuclear program. Iran has been accused of developing nuclear weapons, while Israel views this as an existential threat. In recent months, Israel has carried out airstrikes against Iranian targets in Syria and Iraq, alleging that they were used to support Iran-backed Shiite militias.
Recent Developments:
On February 12, 2023, Iran launched a missile attack on Erbil, Iraq, which it claimed was targeting Israeli intelligence bases. Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for these bases, but it is widely believed to have a presence in the region. The attack raised concerns that the conflict could escalate further.
US Pressure:
The US has been urging Israel to refrain from striking Iran's oil or nuclear facilities before the upcoming US presidential elections in November 2023. The Biden administration fears that such an attack could destabilize the region and complicate its efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal.
Israeli Response:
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has pledged that any Israeli attack on Iran would be "deadly, precise, and surprising." He has not provided specifics on when or how such an attack might occur.
Diplomatic Engagement:
President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu have had several phone calls to discuss the situation. They agreed to stay in close contact and work together to de-escalate tensions. Vice President Kamala Harris also joined one of the calls.
FAQs:
1. Why is the US urging Israel not to strike Iran?
The US fears that such an attack could destabilize the region, complicate negotiations over the Iran nuclear deal, and potentially lead to a broader conflict.
2. What are Israel's concerns about Iran?
Israel views Iran's nuclear program as an existential threat. It also worries about Iranian support for Hezbollah and other Shiite militias in the region.
3. What are Iran's intentions with its missile attack on Iraq?
Iran claims the attack was targeting Israeli intelligence bases in Erbil. However, Israel has not claimed responsibility for these bases, and Iran may have other motivations for the strike.
4. What is Israel's likely response to the Iranian attack?
Israel has not officially announced its response, but it has pledged to take action. Defense Minister Gallant has promised a "deadly, precise, and surprising" attack.
5. What is the potential for escalation in the conflict?
The situation remains tense, and further escalation is possible. However, both the US and Israel are working to de-escalate tensions and prevent the conflict from spiraling out of control.
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