Iran braces for possible Israeli strike amid rising tensions
Iran has concerns about a possible Israeli retaliation for the rocket attack from early October. Consequently, Tehran has engaged in "urgent diplomatic efforts" with other Middle Eastern countries to try to mitigate the scale of Jerusalem's response.
CNN reported on Iran's "urgent diplomatic efforts," citing sources close to the matter. According to the American network's findings, Tehran has doubts about whether the United States will be able to convince Israel to refrain from attacking Iranian nuclear and oil facilities. Furthermore, after Israeli attacks, Hezbollah, Iran's largest ally in the region, has been weakened.
Iran fears Israeli attack. Engages in "urgent efforts" in diplomacy
CNN noted that the United States is consulting with Israel on a response plan to Iran's attack from early October. The American administration has clearly suggested to politicians in Jerusalem that it does not want Iranian nuclear facilities or oil fields damaged in retaliation.
President Joe Biden spoke last Wednesday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the first time in nearly two months. During the discussion, Biden clearly stated that Israel's retaliation should be "proportional."
The United States' allies in the Persian Gulf region, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar, are also concerned about a potential Israeli attack on Iranian oil facilities. Such an attack could negatively impact the economy and environment of the entire region, one Arab diplomat told CNN.
The Biden administration is concerned that the conflict between Israel and Iran could escalate into a major regional war, which would ultimately require U.S. intervention.
CNN noted that Washington's influence on Netanyahu's government seems to be weakening. Israel has already ignored the American administration's recommendations during the Gaza attack. Biden also pressured Jerusalem to limit its actions in Lebanon. Meanwhile, more than 1,400 people have died there as a result of the Israeli offensive and bombings.
CNN's findings indicate that Israel has not yet assured the Americans that it will refrain from attacking Iranian nuclear facilities.
One of the American network's sources noted that it is "unlikely" that Iran's neighbours would come to its defence following an Israeli attack. However, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar do not intend to allow their airspace to be used for strikes on Iranian targets.
Jordan also emphasized that it "will protect its airspace from any unauthorized intrusion, regardless of the origin," CNN reported.
