Biden rejects Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear sites
President of the USA, Joe Biden, stated on Wednesday that he would not support an Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear facilities in response to rocket fire from Iran. He urged the Israeli authorities to take "proportional" actions against their regional adversary.
When asked by reporters before departing for areas affected by Hurricane Helene whether he would support an Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear sites, Biden succinctly replied, "The answer is no."
The American leader announced the imposition of additional sanctions on Iran and mentioned that he would soon speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "Obviously, Iran is way off course," Biden added.
Iran's attack on Israel
On Tuesday evening, Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles at Israel. The Israeli army reported that it intercepted "a large portion" of the 180 rockets aimed at Israel. No casualties were reported. Iran claimed that the raid was retaliation for Israel's killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, and Iranian General Abbas Nilforushan.
Western countries condemned the attack. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken deemed it "absolutely unacceptable." Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock warned Iran that this was a dangerous escalation of the situation. French Prime Minister Michel Barnier expressed concern over the conflict's escalation; the attack was also condemned by the United Kingdom and the United Nations.
"Iran made a big mistake tonight - and it will pay for it," said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday evening.
In defense of Israel, US forces actively participated. Joe Biden ordered units in the area to intercept missiles heading toward Israel.
The Pentagon reported that the defense included, among others, two destroyers: USS Cole and USS Bulkeley. British forces also participated in the action. "British forces have this evening played their part in attempts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East" confirmed UK Defense Minister John Healey. However, he did not specify which units were involved.
