Recent reports indicate that Iran's government is actively engaging in urgent diplomatic efforts with countries in the Middle East following a missile attack earlier this month. Sources familiar with the matter suggest that Tehran is particularly concerned about the potential scale of Israel's response to the attack.
The anxiety within Iran's government appears to be driven by several factors, including uncertainty about whether the US can influence Israel's decision regarding potential strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and oil facilities. Additionally, Iran's key proxy militia in the region, Hezbollah, has reportedly been weakened by recent Israeli military operations.
Amid these developments, the US has been in consultation with Israel regarding its planned response to the October 1 attack. US officials have emphasized their desire to avoid Israeli targeting of Iranian nuclear sites or oil fields. President Joe Biden recently spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging for a 'proportional' retaliation.
Furthermore, US Gulf allies such as the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar have expressed concerns to the US about the potential consequences of an attack on Iranian oil facilities. The allies highlighted the potential negative economic and environmental impacts such an attack could have on the entire region.
These diplomatic maneuvers underscore the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the complex web of relationships and interests at play in the region. The outcome of these diplomatic efforts remains uncertain as Iran seeks to navigate a delicate balance in the face of mounting pressure.
