Report: Israel to Coordinate Response With US Following Iranian Attack

By Yoni Weiss

The Iranian attack aimed at Israeli targets was largely thwarted overnight Motzoei Shabbos, aided by a temporary coalition with the U.S., which showed unified opposition to Iran’s actions.

Prior to the attack, the Diplomatic-Security Cabinet met and granted Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Minister Benny Gantz exclusive authority to determine Israel’s response to Iran. This decision, made in the face of opposition from Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, underscores the significant debate over the response’s timing and nature.

On Sunday, discussions continued among the War Cabinet and the designated ministers, focusing on the potential response and its timing. While internal pressures for a swift and strong retaliation were evident, Yisrael Hayom reported that both Gantz and Gallant advocated for a measured approach, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the strategic alliance with the U.S. to avoid regional escalation.

Gantz mentioned that any action would be taken at Israel’s discretion, keeping in mind broader objectives like securing the return of hostages from Hamas in Gaza and resettling displaced residents. Netanyahu views the defense alliance with the U.S. as a strategic goal, aligning with efforts from the Abraham Accords to enhance regional stability.

The prevailing strategy appears to be maintaining the element of surprise while extracting a psychological toll on the Iranian regime. Any military actions would be closely coordinated with the U.S., ensuring not to jeopardize their alliance.

Moreover, Israel faces immediate challenges that include the return of hostages and securing its borders against threats from Gaza and Hezbollah. In these efforts, Israel may seek increased American support to address these critical security issues.

Despite the power concentrated with Netanyahu, Gallant, and Gantz, Smotrich remains a significant figure. He has expressed his readiness to challenge the coalition if he feels that the response to the Iranian threat is inadequate, stressing that he will not support a strategy of non-response.