Two Forces Shaping the Biden-Netanyahu Call on Iran

In the recent 30-minute phone call between U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, two opposing forces were at play. 

On one side, Biden expressed reluctance to see the U.S. drawn into a broader conflict with Iran, believing that a direct military engagement would be unnecessary and perilous. On the other side, there is growing momentum in Israel, where some see an opportunity to deliver a crippling blow to Iran, its longstanding adversary.

Israel’s recent actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon have energized segments of its population and leadership. 

Despite ongoing struggles in Gaza, which has yet to see the destruction of Hamas or the release of hostages, there is a prevailing belief that a direct strike on Iran, particularly targeting its nuclear facilities, could significantly weaken its regime. 

This sentiment is championed by figures like former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, who views this moment as a rare opportunity to accelerate Iran’s downfall. 

However, Biden remains firm in his opposition, concerned that an attack might push Iran toward building a nuclear weapon, which could destabilize the entire region.