Israel is reportedly preparing to launch retaliatory strikes against Iran, with a focus on military facilities rather than previously considered targets such as nuclear or oil sites. The decision, shared with the United States, signals Israel’s concern about escalating tensions into a broader Middle Eastern conflict ahead of the U.S. presidential election.
According to The Washington Post, senior U.S. officials, speaking anonymously, revealed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed these plans to the Biden administration during an October 9 phone call with President Joe Biden. While Biden has publicly opposed an Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Netanyahu reportedly indicated Israel’s intent to shift its focus to military sites.
A source familiar with the matter noted that they would adjust retaliatory measures to avoid perceptions of political interference in the U.S. elections and addressed the comprehension of Netanyahu on the striking distance of Israel could reshape the U.S. election landscape. The White House had not issued a specific response when Israel started to listen to the U.S. opinion but to make the final decision based on our national interests.
U.S. officials noted that during the phone call, Netanyahu appeared more moderate in his approach than in previous conversations. This shift may have influenced the U.S. Defense Department’s recent decision to deploy around 100 additional troops and a THAAD missile defense system to Israel on October 13. The Pentagon’s announcement emphasized the U.S.’s “ironclad” commitment to Israel’s defense.
Meanwhile, some analysts interpret the U.S. THAAD support as a sign that Israel’s retaliation is imminent. One U.S. official predicted that Israel would strike Iran before the November election, arguing that failing to act could signal weakness. Former Mossad chief Zohar Palti stated, “Netanyahu would have to balance Washington’s calls for moderation with the public’s demand in Israel for an overwhelming response.” An Israeli official projected that while Israel’s retaliation against Iran will occur in consultation with the U.S., it will not wait for American approval, asserting that, ultimately, the decision rests with Netanyahu.
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