Biden warns Israel against retaliating on Iran

President Joe Biden highlighted the role of U.S. forces in neutralizing the majority of drones and missiles Iran launched against Israel on Saturday. He indicated a shift towards diplomacy, planning a meeting with G7 leaders to discuss a collective diplomatic strategy to address Tehran’s actions, aiming to prevent further military escalation in the Middle East.

Biden reassured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of America’s unwavering support following the recent strains over Israel’s actions in Gaza. He praised Israel’s defensive capabilities, which effectively countered the assault, underscoring its resilience against threats.

In response to the escalating tensions after an alleged Israeli airstrike in Damascus on April 1, which killed several Iranian Revolutionary Guards, Biden had preemptively deployed U.S. military resources to the region. He credited these strategic moves and the proficiency of American servicemembers for the successful interception of the attacks.

The president’s remarks suggested a careful balance between supporting Israel and reducing regional tensions, amidst concerns about the U.S. being pulled into another conflict in the Middle East.

Tehran, having initiated the drone attacks, warned the U.S. to distance itself from the conflict. However, U.S. media outlets reported that Biden was advocating for restraint and advised Netanyahu against retaliating, emphasizing the victory in defense rather than escalating the conflict.

Amid these developments, Biden returned to Washington from Delaware for an urgent meeting with his security team, showcasing the gravity of the situation through a shared image from the White House Situation Room.

This diplomatic and military maneuvering occurs as Biden faces the upcoming U.S. presidential election, where his handling of foreign conflicts remains a critical topic. His predecessor, Donald Trump, critiqued Biden’s approach as weak during a campaign rally, linking it to the current threats faced by Israel.

Further complicating matters, the Revolutionary Guards seized a container ship connected to Israel near the Strait of Hormuz, an act the White House denounced as piracy. This strategic maritime route is crucial for global oil supply, emphasizing the broader implications of the conflict.