Israel’s response to Iran’s missile attack in October will focus on targeting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’s military bases and intelligence sites, rather than attacking nuclear facilities. The New York Times reports that Israel seeks US backing for its response, as strikes on nuclear facilities could escalate the situation into a full-scale war. However, if Iran escalates further, nuclear facilities may become targets.
Pentagon officials are questioning whether Israel will retaliate against Iran alone, with doubts on the effectiveness of damaging Iran’s nuclear facilities. Iran has already directly attacked Israel twice this year, prompting warnings of escalation from US President Joe Biden and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.
The Times also mentions a growing sentiment in Israel to set back Iranian capabilities by targeting the Natanz nuclear enrichment plant. Former President Donald Trump suggested hitting the nuclear sites first. Israel has plans to cripple the centrifuge hall at the Natanz plant, a focus of attention for both Israel and the US for over two decades.