Israel Prioritizes National Interest Over US Opinion in Response to Iranian Missile Attack

Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has stated that while his government acknowledges the United States’ perspective, Israel’s response to Iran’s missile strike will be determined by its own national interests.

This comes after the US cautioned Israel against retaliating by targeting Iran’s nuclear or oil facilities to avoid further regional conflict and the potential impact on global energy markets, which might make it difficult for them to get back on their feet.

 In a statement from Netanyahu’s office on October 15, 2024, the Prime Minister emphasized Israel’s independent stance as a result of the incident:

“We listen to the opinions of the United States, but we will make our final decisions based on our national interest.”

This response follows reports that President Biden had warned against further escalation, urging restraint during recent calls between US and Israeli officials.

However, Netanyahu dismissed claims that Israel had committed to limiting any counterstrikes.

Read Also: UN Warns of Catastrophic Conflict as Israel Battles Hezbollah

 Iran launched approximately 200 missiles at Israel on October 1, following Israel’s airstrike in Beirut that killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Iranian General Abbas Nilforoushan.

Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, reaffirmed the country’s resolve to respond decisively, stating that Israel’s retaliation will be “deadly, precise, and surprising.”