President calls for a ‘proportional’ response after Iran’s missile attack on Israel escalates regional conflict

In a significant diplomatic stance, President Joe Biden declared on Wednesday that he would not support an Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear sites in response to Iran’s recent missile barrage. This announcement comes amid escalating tensions following Iran’s launch of 181 missiles aimed at Israel, which has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict.

Speaking briefly to reporters before boarding Air Force One, Biden addressed the gravity of the situation. Just one day after the missile attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had vowed that Iran would face consequences for its aggression. The president clarified that while the leaders of the G7 nations, including France, Canada, Japan, Britain, Italy, and Germany, concurred on Israel’s right to respond to Iran’s military actions, they emphasized the need for any response to be measured and proportional.

“We’ll be discussing with the Israelis what they’re going to do, but all seven of us agree that they have a right to respond, but they should respond proportionally,” Biden remarked, underscoring the collective resolve among allied nations.

When pressed about whether he would endorse a military strike by Israel against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure—an option that Israel has considered for years—Biden firmly stated, “The answer is no.” Instead, he indicated that his administration would pursue additional sanctions against Iran, signalling a strategy focused on economic pressure rather than military engagement. “Obviously, Iran is way off course,” he added, hinting at the urgency of addressing Iran’s military activities.

This incident marks a notable escalation in the ongoing conflict, particularly as the Biden administration has been actively facilitating negotiations aimed at establishing a cease-fire in the year-long Israel-Hamas war. The missile attacks from Iran not only strain diplomatic relations but also pose challenges to regional stability as multiple players navigate the complexities of this evolving situation.

As tensions mount, Biden is expected to have further discussions with Netanyahu in the near future to assess the situation and explore options for de-escalation. The international community watches closely, recognising that the implications of this conflict extend far beyond the immediate borders of Israel and Iran.

In light of these developments, Israel has also reached out to the United Nations, urging condemnation of Iran’s actions. The unfolding events reflect a delicate balance of power in the region, with Biden’s administration seeking to manage both its commitment to Israel’s security and its broader strategic interests in the Middle East.

The President’s firm stance against military action against Iran may not only shape the immediate response to the missile attacks but could also influence long-term relations between Israel, Iran, and other nations involved in the geopolitical landscape of the region.