The Biden administration is growing increasingly frustrated with Israel's reluctance to share details of its planned retaliation against Iran, according to US officials. This lack of transparency comes as Washington seeks to prevent further escalation in the region following recent missile exchanges.
As reported by The Wall Street Journal, Israel has so far refused to divulge specifics of its intended response to Tehran's launch of nearly 200 missiles earlier this month. The attack came shortly after the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, which Israel carried out without informing the US beforehand.
US officials, caught off guard by Israel's previous military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, are now attempting to head off further escalation. The White House is particularly concerned about potential strikes on Iran's oil facilities or nuclear sites, fearing such actions could lead to a wider regional conflict.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had hoped to gain more insight during a planned meeting with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant at the Pentagon on Wednesday. However, Gallant postponed his trip at the direction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, an Israeli official said. The cancellation has left US officials in the dark about both the timing and potential targets of Israel's operation against Iran.
During a phone call about the Nasrallah attack, Austin reportedly expressed his frustration to Gallant, asking, "Excuse me, what did you say?" Later that day, Austin questioned whether Israel was prepared to be "alone" in defending itself, given the lack of notice.
US officials are particularly concerned about having sufficient time to position forces for Israel's defense or to protect nearby US troops in the event of an Israeli strike. Despite frequent conversations between top officials, including over 80 calls between Austin and Gallant in the past year, the US remains uncertain about Israel's plans.
Some in Washington hope that Israel will provide details of its strike plan, including potential targets, during future discussions. However, Israeli officials have indicated that certain sensitive information cannot be shared over the phone.
On October 1, the Iranian regime launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel.
This assault was not merely an attack on Israel; it poses a significant threat to global stability.
Iran, a leading sponsor of terrorism worldwide, must be stopped before it's too late. pic.twitter.com/VjQEJ1Atwd
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) October 9, 2024
The US has bolstered its military presence in the region to defend Israel and American interests, with two aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, destroyers, and additional fighter squadrons currently deployed. US forces have also intercepted Iranian missiles and drones bound for Israel in recent weeks.
While Israel has at times heeded US advice, such as limiting operations in Rafah and avoiding an attack on Hezbollah based on faulty intelligence, its response to Iran could test the limits of this cooperation. US Army Gen Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command, met with Israeli leaders on Sunday to warn against striking Iran's nuclear sites or oil facilities.
As the situation unfolds, President Joe Biden has publicly urged Israel to refrain from attacking Iranian oil facilities, citing potential economic repercussions. However, some US officials speculate that Israel's retaliation could be more significant than its limited April strike on an Iranian antimissile system.
