U.S. Frustration Grows Over Israel's Silence on Iran Retaliation Plans

International Desk

U.S. officials are expressing frustration over Israel's refusal to share details of its plans to retaliate against Iran, even as the Biden administration urges its ally not to target Iranian oil facilities or nuclear sites to prevent a broader regional conflict.

The U.S. has been caught off guard by Israel's recent military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, prompting concerns about further escalation. Hopes for clarity were dashed when Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant postponed a scheduled meeting with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon, where discussions about the retaliatory plans were anticipated.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blocked Gallant from traveling to the U.S. as Israel continued to strategize its response to Iran, leaving U.S. officials uncertain about the timing and targets of any potential strikes.

Recent Israeli operations, such as an unannounced attack on Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, have added to U.S. officials' concerns. During a call regarding the Nasrallah strike, Austin expressed surprise at the lack of prior notification, highlighting the U.S. inability to adequately prepare its forces.

As tensions rise following Iran's missile launches in retaliation for Nasrallah's assassination, U.S. officials are anxious to gain insight into Israel's intentions to prevent escalation that might draw in American forces.

While Israel has occasionally heeded U.S. advice, such as limiting operations in Gaza, the upcoming response to Iran poses a significant challenge for U.S.-Israel communications. U.S. Central Command leader Gen. Erik Kurilla recently visited Israel to caution against strikes on Iranian nuclear sites or oil facilities.

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Gallant, recognized as responsive to U.S. concerns, was expected to outline potential strike details in the postponed meeting with Austin. However, U.S. officials remain uncertain about whether they will receive advance notice of any Israeli actions against Iran.

The Pentagon has reinforced its military presence in the region, with multiple aircraft carriers and additional forces on standby. U.S. forces have previously intercepted Iranian missiles and drones aimed at Israel, and the U.S. has conducted strikes against various regional threats, including recent actions against Houthi targets in Yemen.

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As Israel considers its response to Iran, the political implications in Washington loom, especially with the upcoming presidential election and rising oil prices. President Biden has indicated a preference for Israel to avoid targeting Iranian oil facilities.