US warned Israel of non-participation in retaliatory strikes on Iran
The White House has warned Israel that the US will not participate in any retaliatory strikes on Iran, senior administration officials have said.
In response to Iran's overnight firing of over 300 drones and missiles at Israel, purportedly in retaliation for an April 1 strike on its consulate in Syria, the White House has issued a stern warning to Israel regarding its response.
While the majority of the launched weapons were successfully intercepted by Israeli, US, and allied forces before reaching their intended targets, the Biden administration has urged Israel to exercise caution and strategic thinking in its course of action.
During discussions with reporters on Sunday, a senior administration official disclosed that President Joe Biden personally advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to deliberate meticulously on how Israeli forces would respond to this unprecedented direct attack by Iran.
The official emphasized that the Biden administration views Israel's handling of the situation as commendable, considering the circumstances. The exchange of hostilities commenced with the targeted killing of senior Iranian military commanders at an Iranian consular facility in Syria.
According to US officials, the remarkable success rate in intercepting approximately 99% of the missiles, drones, and cruise missiles launched during Iran's retaliatory operation underscores Israel's military superiority over Iran.
During the attack, US aircraft and naval vessels actively engaged, downing numerous Iranian projectiles. Over 80 drones and at least six ballistic missiles were intercepted either by US aircraft and vessels or by allied air defense forces stationed over Iraq.
Earlier in the day, National Security Spokesman John Kirby made multiple appearances on US television networks reiterating the US stance of steering clear of escalating tensions into a broader conflict. Kirby emphasized that the US has clearly communicated its intention to Israel, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation and avoidance of further conflict.