Biden seeks to deter Israel from striking Iran’s nuclear sites

Netanyahu’s government – along with other Israeli leaders – has threatened reprisals for Iran’s missile attack on Israel

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People take pictures near the remains of an Iranian missile in the Negev desert near Arad, Israel. Photo: AFP

Published: 9:51am, 3 Oct 2024Updated: 10:20am, 3 Oct 2024

US President Joe Biden said Israel should hold off from attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities in retaliation for a missile barrage this week, as Group of Seven nations sought to tamp down a spiralling conflict that threatens to pull the US even deeper in.

Asked if he would support such a response, which some Israeli politicians have called for, Biden responded: “The answer is no”. He said he was set to speak with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the G7 planned a statement in an effort to head off further escalation, while further sanctions will be imposed on Iran.

“All seven of us agree that they have a right to respond, but they have to respond proportionally,” Biden said.

The comments marked a fresh US attempt to rein in Israel, something it’s frequently failed to achieve in almost a year of military conflict.

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Iran launches missile attack on Israel, Netanyahu vows retribution

Israel has defied calls from Washington for a ceasefire in Gaza, and on Wednesday pressed ahead with a ground incursion against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon despite pressure from the US to de-escalate on that front.