The US and its western allies are trying to limit Israel’s response to Iran’s ballistic missile attack in hopes of preventing a widening regional conflict from spiralling out of control.
Washington has made clear it supports Israel’s right to respond militarily to Tuesday’s missile attack, and is holding frequent calls with Israeli officials as they plan their next move.
US President Joe Biden on Wednesday spoke with the other leaders of the G7 to co-ordinate sanctions on Tehran for the attack and advise Israel on its response.
“We’ll be discussing with the Israelis what they’re going to do . . . all seven of us agree that they have a right to respond, but they should respond in proportion,” Biden told reporters after the call.
But US officials acknowledge their influence on Israel may be limited.
Israel is weighing several response options to retaliate against Iran, including attacks on missile launchers or oil infrastructure. Some officials have called for strikes against its nuclear facilities, though a person familiar with the matter said this is not being considered. Biden has also said he would oppose such an attack.