President Joe Biden spoke with reporters at the White House earlier today, stating that Israel and the U.S. are discussing a response to Iran’s recent attack. When asked if he supported an Israeli attack on Iranian oil infrastructure, he answered, “We’re discussing that. I think that would be a little… anyway.”
Following the attack earlier this week in which Iran launched over 180 ballistic missiles targeting civilians in Israel, speculation has increased in regard to an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) retaliatory strike against Iranian oil infrastructure and nuclear facilities.
In response to Biden’s remarks, the Iranian mission to the UN issued the following statement:
Our response will be solely directed at the aggressor. Should any country render assistance to the aggressor, it should likewise be deemed an accomplice and a legitimate target. We advise countries to refrain from entangling themselves in the conflict between the Israeli regime and Iran and to distance themselves from the fray.
IDF Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Herzl “Herzi” Halevi said the Israeli Air Force has the capability to strike anywhere in the Middle East, stating in a press release:
Iran launched approximately 200 missiles at the State of Israel yesterday. Iran attacked civilian areas and endangered the lives of many citizens. Thanks to proper civilian behavior and high-quality defenses, the damage was relatively minor. We will respond, we know how to locate important targets, we know how to strike with precision and power.
I visited Tel Nof Airbase before the holiday began. The base is fully operational, it has not ceased to operate for a moment, and continues to carry out strikes wherever required. We have the capabilities to reach and strike any point in the Middle East. And those of our enemies who have not yet understood this, will soon understand.
On the eve of the holiday, the IDF is operating and striking on all fronts. IDF soldiers will mark the holiday in the Gaza Strip, Lebanon, Judea and Samaria, and on all the borders, with reinforced forces and heightened readiness.
We are fighting, and we know that this holiday is not complete without the hostages. We are committed to continuing to do everything to bring them back.
We mourn the fallen, and from here, I want to embrace their families and the wounded, who are paying the costly price of the war. May we all have a much better year than the previous one.
