Israeli leaders have yet to inform the United States of their detailed military response plans following last week’s Iranian ballistic missile attack. Despite this, US military officials continue to discuss potential support for Israel, including intelligence-sharing or airstrikes, according to two US officials.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Sunday evening, exploring possible reactions to Iran’s missile strike. Although Israel has not finalized its strategy or timing, discussions between the two leaders addressed various response scenarios, as reported by NBC News on Tuesday, citing one former and two current officials.
Earlier that day, Israeli officials gathered to evaluate possible countermeasures, according to two US sources. While Israel is expected to retaliate, its options are still being refined through meetings held on Monday and Tuesday.
Options under consideration reportedly involve targeting Iran’s military and intelligence assets, air defenses, and energy facilities. Notably, nuclear sites were not mentioned in these discussions.
Gallant had planned to meet Austin in Washington on Wednesday, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requested a postponement. US officials expressed concerns that Israel’s response might coincide with Gallant’s planned visit.
Iran remains on high alert following an October 1 missile strike from Tehran, which has escalated regional tensions amid Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza, now in their second year.
