The recent direct attack on Israel by Iran proved to be a victory for the Jewish state, as well as for the United States, Britain, and France. Despite the fears of a wider war, Iran’s military technology was no match for Israel’s superior defenses. Iran launched drones and missiles in retaliation for the killing of three top Iranian commanders by Israel, but Israel’s Iron Dome and Arrow missile defense systems proved effective in stopping the assault. While injuries were sustained, the lack of fatalities helped prevent further escalation.
President Biden’s response to the attack was to vow an “iron-clad” defense of Israel, urging Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu not to retaliate. This presents Netanyahu with a difficult choice on how to respond to Iran’s attack, balancing the risk of further escalation with the need to protect Israeli interests. The ongoing war also serves as a distraction for Netanyahu from internal political challenges, such as protests against his attempts to influence the Supreme Court. The suffering in Gaza has also impacted Israel’s standing in the court of world opinion, as well as creating tension within the Biden administration.
The Iranian attack has brought America and Israel closer together, with the U.S. delivering on its promise to support Israel with military aid. The assault has also highlighted the need for bipartisan support for Israel in Congress, as delays in aid due to partisan politics have been brought into sharper focus. Speaker Mike Johnson’s refusal to allow a vote on aid to Israel has been criticized, and efforts to pass a bill providing aid to Israel are underway. Johnson’s willingness to include aid to Ukraine in exchange for a relaxation of Biden’s energy policy shows the complex interplay of political interests at play in providing support to Israel.
Overall, the Iranian attack on Israel has demonstrated Israel’s resilience in the face of aggression, and highlighted the importance of international support in defending against threats from its enemies. The response from the U.S. and other allies shows a united front in standing with Israel, despite internal political challenges and tensions. The need for bipartisan solidarity in Congress to support Israel is crucial, as delays in aid due to partisan politics are no longer acceptable given the escalating threats faced by Israel. The ongoing conflict underscores the need for timely and effective action to ensure Israel’s security and stability in the region.
