In a critical phone call, President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed Israel's plans to retaliate against Iran following a recent ballistic missile attack. The call, which took place on Wednesday, marked the first time the two leaders have spoken in months, amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the call, underscoring the importance of the United States' commitment to Israel's security. The President affirmed his ironclad commitment to Israel's security and condemned Iran's ballistic missile attack against Israel on October 1st, which was largely intercepted but caused some damage to Israeli air bases and infrastructure in Tel Aviv.
The conversation between Biden and Netanyahu centered on several key issues, including Israel's potential strikes on Iran. U.S. officials have expressed concerns about the scope and timing of these attacks, emphasizing the need for clarity and transparency from Israel to avoid any disproportionate responses that could impact U.S. forces and interests in the region.
Israel has been weighing its response to Iran's missile attack, with Netanyahu hunkering down with senior ministers and military leaders to decide on the scope and timing of potential strikes. These could include airstrikes on military targets in Iran and clandestine operations like the one that killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.
The Biden administration aims to rein in Israel's retaliation, ensuring that any attacks are significant but not disproportionate. The U.S. has been working closely with Israel to combat Iran's response, which could escalate further if not managed carefully. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was set to meet with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in Washington but postponed his trip at the last minute due to Netanyahu's instructions.
The call also touched on other regional conflicts, including the wars in Lebanon and Gaza. The President emphasized the need for a diplomatic arrangement to safely return both Lebanese and Israeli civilians to their homes on both sides of the Blue Line. He also discussed the urgent need to renew diplomacy to release hostages held by Hamas and to restore access to Gaza, particularly by reinvigorating the corridor from Jordan.
The Biden-Netanyahu call comes as Israel continues its war against Hamas in Gaza while seeking to root out Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon. The situation remains volatile, with both sides vowing retaliation and the U.S. seeking to maintain stability in the region.
In summary, the phone call between Biden and Netanyahu highlights the complex dynamics of the Middle East conflict. The U.S. and Israel must navigate these challenges carefully to avoid further escalation and ensure regional stability.
