Hours before Iran-backed Hezbollah fired dozens of dromes at Israeli artillery sites, United States President Joe Biden on Friday had delivered a clear message to Iran, stating that while the US remains steadfast in its support for Israel, it will "not tolerate any attacks from Tehran". His remarks came as tensions escalated after Israel's recent bombing of an Iranian consulate in Syria's Damascus.
During a press briefing yesterday, Biden affirmed the US commitment to Israel's defence. He emphasised that Iran's attempts to attack Israel would be met with a strong response from the United States.
When questioned about the timing of a potential Iranian attack, Biden, however not providing any specific details, indicated that it could occur "sooner rather than later". In a brief, stark, and direct response to a reporter's question about his message to Iran ahead of "significant strike", Biden simply stated, "Don't".
Hezbollah Drone Strike
The Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah claimed responsibility for the recent drone attack on Israel. Hezbollah launched “dozens of Katyusha rockets” at Israeli artillery sites on April 12. It said that the attack was in retaliation to the recent Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon. Click here to read more.
Reportedly, Gulf nations had urged the United States to refrain from using military bases on their soil in response to any potential Iranian attack on Israel.
As per media reports, Gulf allies are actively working to prevent their involvement in any US retaliation against Iran or its proxies. Reports say concerns have been raised about the details of basing agreements that allow US military presence in countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Kuwait. These nations are also taking measures to restrict US airspace access.
Notably, the strategic positioning of US military bases in the Gulf has long been seen as crucial for potential operations against Iran. However, the efforts of Gulf states to distance themselves from any conflict pose challenges to the Biden administration's preparedness in the face of Iranian aggression.
Earlier this week, Biden reaffirmed the US' 'ironclad' commitment to Israel. The statement came during a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Biden assured Netanyahu of Washington's unwavering support in the face of threats from Iran. Read the full report here.