World
October 1, 2024 21:50
washington - The US government is facing challenges as the Middle East slides towards a broader war, with Iran's recent direct attack on Israel leading to increased tensions. Despite efforts to maintain peace, the American approach seems to have failed.
The Biden administration's attempts to keep arch-enemies Israel and Iran apart have faltered following Tehran's renewed direct attack on the Jewish state with around 180 ballistic missiles. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed the attack was 'effectively repelled' with assistance from the US and 'other partners'.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris convened with their security team few hours before the missile strikes. They instructed Israel to assist in intercepting the missile barrage and monitored the situation from the Situation Room at the White House.
Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed the 'serious consequences' for Iran with his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant in case of a direct attack on Israel. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that 'an appropriate response' is being sought in cooperation with Israel after this 'significant escalation by Iran'. 'There will be consequences,' Sullivan added.
The US has a Strike Group around the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln in the Gulf of Oman. Off the coast of Lebanon, an amphibious fleet squadron, including the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is sailing. The troops can assist in an evacuation in Lebanon.
In addition, extra combat aircraft have been directed to the region recently, including F-22 and A-10 attack planes. The latter Warthogs, named after the snorting sound of the machine gun, are used for ground targets. Earlier this year, the US sent B1 bombers to Europe.
The American government has consistently pushed for de-escalation amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran. After the unprecedented Iranian attack with over three hundred rockets and drones in April, crossing a 'red line', the White House preached calm. President Biden indicated there would be no retaliation shortly after crisis talks, garnering criticism from Republicans in Congress.
The new Iranian attack, this time with faster ballistic missiles, signifies a further escalation and highlights the failure of the American approach. The Middle East is being pushed towards a broader war. This poses a challenge for Democrats as the nation gears up to elect a new president and Congress on November 5.
Republicans have previously criticized the Biden administration's 'softer approach' towards Iran, including releasing billions in frozen assets to Tehran, for provoking the terror of Iran's allies Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as the direct attack from the ayatollahs on the Jewish state. Iran supports the terror organizations, as well as the Houthis in Yemen. The Iranian attack follows Israel's ground offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon.