A Commitment To Safety
In a recent statement, President Joe Biden reiterated the United States’ steadfast support for Israel’s defense against Iran following the latter’s failed drone attack. Emphasizing Israel’s technological prowess, Biden lauds the nation’s capability to protect itself against threats from Iran.
The President’s remarks emphasized the commitment of the US to ensure the security and survival of the only Jewish state. Biden affirmed that the US stands prepared to take action if needed to safeguard Israel from threats posed by Iran.
EU Leaders Mull Tightening Sanctions on Iran Following Attack on Israel
In response to Iran’s recent missile and drone attack on Israel, European Union (EU) leaders are convening in Brussels on Wednesday to deliberate on possible sanctions against Tehran. The summit comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and efforts by global powers to avert a broader conflict in the region.
While Israel has refrained from disclosing its response strategy to Saturday’s attack, EU leaders have urged restraint while signaling its readiness to intensify sanctions against Iran. A draft statement preceding the EU summit showed leaders expressing strong condemnation of the Iranian attack.
EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell reiterated the bloc’s preparedness to tighten sanctions against Iran. Borrell revealed that EU foreign ministers will continue deliberations on whether to tighten further existing sanctions, including a curb on the supply of Iranian drones and missiles to proxies in the Middle East.
Proposals within the EU also include extending sanctions to target Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps. However, Borrell explained that designation as a terrorist organization hinges on conclusive evidence of terrorist activities, as determined by national authorities within the EU.
EU And US Coordinate Response Amid Escalating Tensions
Meanwhile, the United States and its Western allies view economic sanctions as a lever to urge Israel to exercise restraint in its response to Iranian aggression. However, analysts caution that significant sanctions against Iran could have broader implications, including oil prices and diplomatic relations with significant importers like China.
Iran’s provocation stems from an earlier incident on April 1, when its embassy in Damascus was allegedly struck in an attack attributed to Israel. In a retaliatory move, Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles towards Israel overnight, triggering a tense standoff in the Middle East.
However, the US military successfully intercepted dozens of these drones, while Israel’s defense forces (IDF) neutralized the majority of incoming projectiles. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the chief spokesman for Israel’s military, revealed that nearly 99% of the aerial threats were intercepted. He noted that the Nevatim Air Force base, targeted by Iran, sustained minimal damage and remained operational, defying Iran’s attempt to destroy it.
