The Israeli Security Cabinet has delayed the vote on an attack on Iran and potential targets, following a four-hour discussion without reaching a decision, as reported by Israeli media outlets. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant were not given authorization to make any decisions on the matter. The delay in the vote is believed to be a strategic move to maintain an element of surprise and could impact Gallant’s upcoming trip to the US.
Netanyahu set conditions for Gallant’s visit to the US, necessitating a conversation with President Biden and approval from the Cabinet regarding the nature of the response to Iran. The recent Iranian missile attack, which was in retaliation for the assassination of Hamas’ former political bureau chief and other targets, caused damage to Israeli air bases. The Cabinet had previously approved a response, but the timing and objectives of the counterstrike are still under discussion.