In a striking contrast to President Joe Biden’s stance, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has urged Israel to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities in response to the Islamic republic’s recent missile barrage. This development comes as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate.
Speaking at a campaign event in North Carolina, Trump referenced a question posed to Biden about Israel targeting Iran’s nuclear program. Trump criticized Biden’s response, stating, “They asked him, what do you think about Iran, would you hit Iran? And he goes, ‘As long as they don’t hit the nuclear stuff.’ That’s the thing you want to hit, right?” Biden, when asked about supporting strikes against Iranian nuclear sites, unequivocally stated, “The answer is no”. This stance aligns with the G7 members’ consensus that Israel has the right to respond, but should do so proportionally.
The Pentagon has been engaged in discussions with Israel regarding their response to Iran’s attack, which included the launch of approximately 200 missiles. The US Navy played a crucial role in defending Israel, with two destroyers launching interceptors to counter the Iranian attack.
Trump’s statement has sparked debate amid the presidential election, with the former president holding Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris responsible for the crisis. As tensions persist, the international community remains concerned about the potential for all-out war in the region.
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