Israel asks Washington to approve strikes on Iran’s energy sector
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Zambian Observer
The Israeli government has asked Washington for permission to strike Iranian energy facilities, which have so far been spared, according to Israeli public broadcaster Kan. The request comes as the United States and Israel consider new military options after the US midterm elections, the Israeli media outlet reports.
Israel has officially asked the United States for permission to strike Iranian energy infrastructure that has so far been spared. The request was reported by Kan, Israel’s public broadcaster, according to the Zambian Observer.
Israeli officials believe a major new strike on the energy sector could increase pressure on Iran’s economy and push Tehran to make concessions. Washington had previously rejected some Israeli requests to target a wider range of sites, while a US naval blockade is already reducing Iran’s oil revenues, the Zambian media outlet reports.
Options for strikes on energy, nuclear, missile-production and drone-production facilities have reportedly been prepared for a possible operation after the US midterm elections. President Donald Trump has delayed major operations, partly because of concerns about gas prices, while leaving open the possibility of further strikes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu describes Iran as an existential threat to Israel.
The request is now in the hands of the White House. Approval would expand the range of targets and could increase the domestic cost of the war in the United States, particularly if strikes hit refineries and power stations, according to the Zambian Observer. The debate comes as the US prepares for a possible offensive after 3 November and Iran says it is ready to retaliate against any US or Israeli attack.
