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Netanyahu Pledges Military-Only Retaliation on Iran, Avoids Wider Conflict
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has assured US President Joe Biden that Israel’s retaliation against Iran for its recent ballistic missile attack will be limited to military targets, according to a report by The Washington Post. This decision marks a strategic move to avoid further escalating tensions in the region, especially as the US prepares for its upcoming election.
Israel Limits Retaliation to Military Sites
The report, citing two officials familiar with the matter, indicates that Netanyahu’s softened stance was a key factor in the US decision to send an advanced anti-ballistic missile air defense system to Israel. The Middle East has been on high alert since October 1, when Iran launched 200 ballistic missiles at Israel in retaliation for the assassination of Hezbollah terror chief Hassan Nasrallah. The attack, while largely ineffective, prompted Israel to consider a response.
US and Gulf States Aim to De-Escalate Tensions
The US has urged Israel to avoid broad retaliatory strikes, fearing that continued military exchanges could ignite a wider conflict across the region. Netanyahu’s conversation with Biden on October 8 confirmed Israel’s intention to focus on military sites only. Meanwhile, Gulf states have lobbied the US to prevent Israel from targeting Iran’s oil infrastructure, concerned that such strikes could provoke retaliation against their own oil facilities by Tehran’s proxies.
Israel’s National Security Priorities
Despite US and Gulf state concerns, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office released a statement asserting that Israel’s national security needs would ultimately guide its actions. “We listen to the American government’s thoughts, but will make our final decisions based on Israel’s national security needs,” the statement read.
As Israel prepares its retaliation, the delicate balance of regional and international interests will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of this ongoing conflict.
