Biden Vows Uncompromising Support for Israel, Urges De-escalation Amidst Iran Missile Barrage

US President Joe Biden has vowed to defend Israel after Iran launched an unprecedented aerial attack, while reiterating his desire for a ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas. Biden stated the US commitment to Israel's security and preventing the conflict from escalating further. He also emphasized the importance of protecting US personnel and partners in the region, including Iraq, which has been trying to maintain neutrality despite attacks on US facilities by pro-Iran groups.

Biden Vows Unwavering Support for Israel, Urges De-escalation in Midst of Iran's Missile Barrage

In a resolute address at the White House on Monday, President Joe Biden reaffirmed the United States' unwavering commitment to Israel's security while pledging to prevent the escalation of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The remarks came in the wake of an unprecedented aerial attack launched by Iran against Israel, prompting concerns over a potential wider conflagration.

Addressing the press alongside Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani, Biden condemned Iran's "unprecedented aerial attack" and praised the joint military efforts that successfully defended Israel. "Together with our partners, we defended that attack," he asserted.

Emphasizing the urgency of de-escalation, Biden said, "We are committed to a ceasefire that will bring the hostages home and prevent the conflict from spreading beyond what it already has." The reference was to the kidnapping of Israeli soldiers by Hamas militants during the October 7 attacks.

Israel is currently deliberating its response to Iran's massive drone and missile assault on Saturday, which Tehran claimed was a reprisal for an alleged Israeli strike that killed an Iranian general in Syria. American forces aided Israel in intercepting and neutralizing nearly all the incoming projectiles.

While assuring Israel of "ironclad" support, Biden cautioned against impulsive actions that could trigger a larger-scale conflict. "We urge Israel to think carefully and strategically before launching a response," he advised.

Biden also emphasized the United States' commitment to protecting American personnel and allies in the region, including Iraq. The Iraqi Prime Minister, visiting for consultations regarding the presence of U.S. troops as part of the anti-jihadist coalition, echoed Biden's call for restraint.

"We encourage all the efforts to stop the expansion of the area of conflict, especially the latest development," said Sudani, speaking through an interpreter. He expressed eagerness for an end to the Gaza war, highlighting Iraq's efforts to remain neutral amidst regional tensions.

The White House emphatically denied receiving any prior warning about the timing or targets of Iran's attack, labeling it a "spectacular" failure. "All of this is categorically false," asserted National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, refuting claims that Iran had provided early notification to facilitate Israel's preparation.

U.S. officials had previously disclosed that Iran had communicated through Switzerland its intentions to retaliate for the Damascus strike. However, Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated Washington's desire for de-escalation.

"What this weekend demonstrated is that Israel did not have to and does not have to defend itself alone when it is the victim of an aggression," Blinken said at a meeting with Iraq's deputy prime minister. He revealed his involvement in numerous diplomatic talks over the past 36 hours, aiming to coordinate a collective response that would avert further escalation.

The United States stands steadfast in its support for Israel's security, seeking a swift resolution to the conflict and the prevention of its expansion. Biden's address conveyed the urgency of de-escalation, balancing unwavering commitment with cautious deliberation. As the region grapples with the aftermath of Iran's attack, the international community anxiously awaits Israel's response and the diplomatic efforts to avert a wider war.