By outdoor-nature-child.com On April 15, an Israeli Air Force F-15 fighter jet was seen preparing to land at a military base in central Israel. According to a report by NBC News on October 12, U.S. officials believe that Israel has narrowed down the targets it may strike in response to potential Iranian missile attacks, focusing on Iran’s military and energy infrastructure.
The report mentions no signs that Israel intends to target nuclear facilities or conduct assassinations. However, U.S. officials emphasize that Israel has not yet made a final decision on how or when to respond.
While officials are uncertain about the timing of Israel’s potential response, they noted that the Israeli military is on standby, ready to act immediately once orders are given.
U.S. officials stated they have no information indicating a response would occur on the 12th, acknowledging that Israel has not shared a specific timeline with them. It remains unclear whether Israeli officials have reached any consensus regarding timing. Nonetheless, both U.S. and Israeli officials indicate that a response could emerge during the Yom Kippur holiday, which falls on the 11th to 12th this year.
Officials report that Israel has shared more information with the U.S. regarding its retaliatory measures but has withheld many details for operational security reasons. The U.S. is prepared to defend its assets in the region against any immediate counterattacks from Iran but is unlikely to provide direct military support for these actions.
On the evening of October 11, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Gallant about a rough concept of Israel’s response, but it remains unclear whether Gallant disclosed any specific details. Reports indicate that this conversation took place following a meeting of the Israeli Cabinet regarding potential retaliation, though Gallant did not share the specific targets discussed.
U.S. officials continue to urge the Israeli government to respond proportionately, focusing on military objectives while avoiding targets related to oil, gas, and nuclear facilities. They also noted that when President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke recently, they did not discuss any details of the response plan.