President Biden Hopes Israel’s Strike on Iran Will End Direct Fighting
President Joe Biden expressed his desire for Israel’s recent strike on Iran to mark the end of direct conflict between the two countries. In response, Iran stated that it reserved the right to retaliate but did not explicitly vow to do so.
Israel announced that it had completed its strikes against Iran and cautioned against initiating a new round of hostilities. The Israeli attack was in retaliation for Iran’s firing of over 180 missiles at Israel on October 1 and was supported by the Biden administration. However, U.S. officials urged Israel to avoid targeting nuclear or oil facilities to prevent a broader regional conflict.
The Israeli strike, conducted early on Saturday, targeted military sites in Syria, Iraq, and Iran. Approximately 20 Iranian targets were hit, including facilities producing long-range missiles and air defense sites, resulting in the death of four Iranian soldiers.
President Biden, speaking to reporters, noted that the strike appeared to have focused solely on military targets and expressed hope that it would bring an end to the conflict.
The attack occurred shortly before the U.S. presidential election, with both major candidates expressing support for Israel’s actions. Former President Donald Trump reportedly endorsed Israel’s decision, while Vice President Kamala Harris emphasized the importance of both supporting Israel’s right to self-defense and seeking de-escalation in the region.
Iran condemned the attack, linking it to Israel’s conflicts with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. However, Iran’s foreign minister did not commit to a direct response to the Israeli strike.
This recent conflict marks the second direct confrontation between Iran and Israel this year, following years of indirect hostilities. In April, Iran launched projectiles at Israel in response to reported Israeli actions in Syria, prompting a limited Israeli strike on an Iranian military target.
Following the most recent Israeli attack, Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari stated that Israel had no further plans to target Iran but warned against any escalation from the Iranian side. Israeli politicians expressed mixed reactions to the strike, with some advocating for further action against Iran.
Despite differing opinions within Israeli political circles, the focus remains on preventing further escalation and maintaining regional stability.
Support the Jewish Telegraphic Agency
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency supports the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for over 100 years. With your contribution, JTA can continue delivering vital news and insights. Donate today.