Call for International Support
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz sparked concern on Friday by stating that Israel expects international partners like the UK and France to join in not only defending but also attacking significant targets in Iran if a strike occurs. Katz made these remarks during a meeting in Jerusalem focused on preventing regional escalation and negotiating a hostage deal.
UK and France Respond
UK and France, however, have tempered expectations for such an alliance. UK emphasized the need to break the “current destructive cycle of retaliatory violence” in the Middle East, while French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné deemed it “inappropriate” to discuss retaliation amid ongoing diplomatic talks.
Tensions Amid Potential Iranian Retaliation
Katz’s comments come in the wake of heightened tensions following the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, an act for which Iran holds Israel responsible, though Israel has not confirmed its involvement. In response, a UK foreign office spokesperson stressed the importance of de-escalation and urged all parties to avoid actions that would further escalate regional tensions.
US Perspective on Escalation
A senior US administration official warned that any Iranian strike on Israel could have “cataclysmic” consequences, particularly for Iran. While the official noted that the US is prepared for any contingency, they sidestepped questions about US involvement in a potential strike on Iran, emphasizing instead the ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire and negotiate a hostage deal.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the possibility of military action remains a critical and highly sensitive issue for the involved nations.