US considers strikes on Iran following missile attack on Israel

By AJP Posted : October 4, 2024, 09:37 Updated : October 4, 2024, 10:06
 
President Joe Biden talks to reporters at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on Oct. 3, 2024. AP-Yonhap
SEOUL, October 4 (AJP) - On Thursday, President Joe Biden announced that the U.S. is considering strikes on Iran's oil facilities in retaliation for Tehran's missile attack on Israel. Concurrently, Israel's military launched new airstrikes in Beirut targeting Hezbollah.

As Israel weighs its response to Iran's significant attack, Biden was asked if he would support strikes on Iranian oil infrastructure. He confirmed, "We're discussing that," which caused global oil prices to rise due to fears of supply disruptions from escalating regional tensions. However, he stated, "There is nothing going to happen today," and emphasized he would not endorse any Israeli actions against Iran's nuclear sites.

Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon said that Israel has various options for retaliation and intends to show strength to Tehran "soon." A U.S. official noted that Israel has not yet determined its response to Iran.

In Beirut's Dahiye area, a Hezbollah stronghold, Israeli airstrikes resumed near midnight, following evacuation orders for residents in specific neighborhoods. The strikes reportedly aimed at Hashem Safieddine, a prominent Hezbollah figure and possible successor to the deceased leader Hassan Nasrallah, though his current status is unknown.

Israel's military has not commented on these operations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Iran will be held accountable for the missile attack, with the U.S. vowing to work alongside Israel to ensure Iran faces "severe consequences." In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that any military aggression or crossing of red lines would be met with a decisive response from Iran's armed forces.

Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.