Biden and Netanyahu discuss Israeli retaliation plans against Iran amid escalating tensions

The call, which took place late Wednesday morning US time, followed a missile attack by Tehran in retaliation for Israeli military actions in Lebanon.

While the Iranian attack did not cause any casualties in Israel, Netanyahu has vowed that Iran would “pay for its missile attack,” escalating fears of a broader war in the region that could draw in the United States. Tehran has warned that any retaliation would lead to “vast destruction.”

Rising tensions with Iran and Hezbollah

The conflict between Israel and Iran, as well as Iran-backed Hezbollah, has intensified, with Israeli strikes continuing in both Gaza and Lebanon. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant cancelled a visit to the Pentagon, with Israeli media suggesting Netanyahu wanted to consult with Biden first.

Tensions have also been exacerbated by Israeli actions, including the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and sabotage of Hezbollah communications, actions that Israel has neither confirmed nor denied.

Netanyahu’s handling of the situation has drawn widespread condemnation, especially over the high death toll in Gaza, where nearly 42,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry. Over 2,000 people have also died in Lebanon. Israel argues that these operations are in self-defence, following Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and 250 taken hostage.

US concerns and election impact

US officials have expressed concerns over Israel’s lack of communication regarding its plans for retaliation against Iran’s missile attack. President Biden, who has faced criticism from international allies and members of his own Democratic Party over his perceived inability to influence Netanyahu’s strategy, is keen to ensure any Israeli response is measured.

The call between Biden and Netanyahu also involved US Vice President Kamala Harris, and discussions were expected to cover not just Israel’s response to Iran but also the broader conflicts with Hamas and Hezbollah.

Biden’s hesitations on striking Iranian oil fields

While Biden has supported Israel targeting Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, he has also expressed hesitation about more extreme measures. Last week, Biden suggested that he would “think about alternatives to striking Iranian oil fields” and stated that he would not support an Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear sites.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where millions have been displaced and are facing shortages of food and water, as well as the displacement of 70,000 Israelis due to Hezbollah attacks, remains a critical issue.

Despite calls for a ceasefire from the US and other allies, Israel has stated it will continue military operations until its citizens are safe.