Title: Israel Launches “Limited” Strikes on Iran Despite White House Opposition
Despite the White House voicing its opposition against Israel striking back at Iran, the Jewish state issued “limited” strikes early Friday. Fox News Digital has confirmed explosions in Isfahan province where Natanz is located, though it is unclear if it has been hit.
A well-placed military source told Fox that the strike was “limited.” This news came after President Joe Biden warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the U.S. would not take part in a counter-offensive against Iran.
Democrats have expressed concern that President Biden has ruined his standing among progressives with his support for Israel. The president criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over Israel’s conduct during its war with Hamas.
John Kirby, the White House’s top national security spokesperson, reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to helping Israel defend itself but emphasized that they do not want war with Iran. Kirby stated, “our commitment is ironclad” to defending Israel and helping them defend themselves.
Pentagon Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder echoed Kirby’s sentiments, stating that the U.S. does not want to see a wider regional war and will defend Israel while avoiding escalation in the region.
Reports of Israel’s “limited strike” against Iran followed a retaliatory strike over the weekend. Iran attacked Israel in retaliation for Israel’s deadly strike on Iran’s consulate in Syria earlier this month. This marked a major escalation of violence between the two nations.
Despite decades of hostilities, Iran had never directly attacked Israel, relying on proxy forces in other regions. The situation remains tense as both countries navigate the delicate balance of power in the region.
Fox News’ Bradford Betz and Jennifer Griffin contributed to this report. Sarah Rumpf-Whitten is a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business, based in Orlando, Florida. Story tips and ideas can be sent to sarah.rumpf@fox.com or on Twitter @s_rumpfwhitten.
