Biden Confirms 'Discussions' on Potential Israeli Strike on Iran's Oil Facilities

US President Joe Biden confirmed on Thursday that discussions are underway about the possibility of Israel striking Iran’s oil facilities in response to the recent ballistic missile attack by Tehran. Speaking to reporters on the White House lawn, Biden acknowledged the deliberations but emphasized that Israel would make its own decisions on the scope and timing of its response. “We’re in discussion of that. I think I think that would be a little anyway,” Biden remarked, adding that while the US advises Israel, it does not control its actions.

Tuesday’s missile barrage from Iran, which prompted millions of Israelis to seek shelter, marked Tehran’s second direct attack on Israel. The missiles, aimed at Israeli airbases, resulted in some damage but were largely deemed “ineffective” by the IDF. Iran claimed the strike was retaliation for the killing of Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah and senior figures from Hamas and the IRGC.

Reports indicate that Israel is carefully considering a wide range of retaliatory options, including strikes on Iran’s oil infrastructure or nuclear facilities. Channel 12 News suggested a “harsh response” could come in the next few days, with coordination between Washington and Jerusalem continuing at the highest levels. Israel’s envoy to the UN, Danny Danon, stressed, “It’s up to us to decide where and when we want to attack, but they are vulnerable.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened multiple security meetings on Thursday to finalize the country’s response. While defense sources confirmed that the Israeli Air Force is prepared for a series of retaliatory strikes, Netanyahu has stressed the importance of balancing military actions with the goal of avoiding an all-out regional war.

Biden, while optimistic that broader conflict can be avoided, reiterated US support for Israel. “I don’t believe there’s going to be an all-out war. I think we can avoid it,” Biden stated, emphasizing the continued partnership with Israel. Pentagon officials echoed this, confirming ongoing discussions with Israel but declining to speculate on the nature of any impending strike.

The potential for an Israeli strike on Iran’s oil facilities has already caused a surge in global oil prices. Israeli officials are also pressing for tougher international sanctions on Tehran, hoping to leverage this moment to strengthen diplomatic and economic pressure on the regime.

Meanwhile, Iran has vowed to retaliate if Israel strikes its oil facilities. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that any Israeli military action would prompt a “stronger response,” with Iranian commentators predicting missile strikes targeting Israeli civilian infrastructure. The current escalation is seen by Tehran as a “moment of truth” in its existential battle against Israel and its allies.

As the situation unfolds, the G7 nations expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in the Middle East, condemning Iran’s missile strike on Israel and warning of the dangers of uncontrolled escalation. The G7 leaders reiterated calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and urged the unconditional release of hostages, stressing the need for coordinated international efforts to prevent the conflict from spreading further.

With tensions running high, the coming days will be critical in determining whether Israel responds militarily and how the region reacts to the next stage of this escalating conflict.

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