Biden refuses to negotiate on Israel’s stance toward Iranian oil
President Joe Biden has taken a firm stance against public negotiations regarding Israel’s potential military actions against Iranian oil facilities, amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
President Joe Biden has taken a firm stance against public negotiations regarding Israel’s potential military actions against Iranian oil facilities, amid rising tensions in the Middle East. When asked whether he had urged Israel not to attack these facilities, Biden replied succinctly, “I don’t negotiate in public.”
This statement came during a press conference on Thursday, where Biden also addressed concerns over the potential impact of an Israeli strike on oil prices. “If a hurricane hits, prices are going to go up. I don’t know; who knows,” he remarked, highlighting the unpredictability of the situation.
Biden’s comments follow a recent ballistic missile attack by Iran, which Tehran claims was in retaliation for Israeli operations that resulted in the deaths of prominent Iranian and Hezbollah officials, including ex-Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah. The Israeli strikes have exacerbated an already volatile situation, with fears of a broader conflict looming as tensions escalate between Israel and Iran.
Amid the backdrop of increasing aggression, Biden noted that he had not spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in recent days, explaining, “Because there’s no action going on right now.” However, he emphasized the U.S. commitment to ensuring that Iran faces serious consequences for its missile strikes.
Also Read:EU sues Hungary over sovereignty protection law amid growing tensions
Earlier on Thursday, Biden’s remarks about potential strikes on Iran’s oil facilities contributed to a spike in global oil prices. A U.S. official later clarified that Israel has yet to determine its course of action in response to Iran’s recent aggression. Biden reiterated the U.S. position against any Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear sites.
In the face of these developments, Biden expressed cautious optimism regarding the potential for avoiding an all-out war in the region. “I don’t believe there is going to be an all-out war. I think we can avoid it,” he stated. However, he acknowledged the complexities of the situation, adding, “But there is a lot to do yet, a lot to do yet.”
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, aware that any misstep could plunge the region into deeper conflict.