Biden tells Netanyahu US will not take part in Israeli retaliatory action against Iran

President Joe Biden cautioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the United States would abstain from joining a retaliatory strike against Iran, a course of action favored by Netanyahu's war cabinet following a significant drone and missile assault on Israeli territory, according to sources.

The looming specter of full-scale warfare breaking out between the enduring adversaries of the Middle East, potentially ensnaring the United States, has heightened tensions in the region, prompting appeals for moderation from global powers and Arab nations.

"The Middle East teeters on the brink. Regional inhabitants face a tangible threat of catastrophic conflict. It's imperative to diffuse tensions and reduce escalation," remarked United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during a Security Council session convened on Sunday in response to the attacks.

Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Robert Wood urged the council to outright condemn Iran's aggression.

"Let me underscore: should Iran or its proxies target the United States or escalate aggression against Israel, Iran will be held accountable," he asserted.

Nevertheless, Biden conveyed to Netanyahu that the U.S. would refrain from engaging in any Israeli retaliation against Iran for the attack, as stated by a White House representative.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin engaged with counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Jordan, emphasizing the imperative of de-escalation, the significance of a unified diplomatic response, and reaffirming continued U.S. support for Israel's defense.