‘No attacks on nuclear sites, sanctions on table’: Joe Biden discusses Iran with G7

In response to Iran's missile strike on Israel, the US and G7 are contemplating new sanctions. President Biden discussed the situation with G7 leaders.

Updated on: Oct 3, 2024, 04:49:45 IST

By HT News Desk

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The United States and G7 members "unequivocally" condemned Iran's missile attack on Israel, the White House said on Wednesday, and are considering new sanctions.

President Joe Biden speaks to the media before boarding Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. (AP)

President Joe Biden spoke with G7 leaders to discuss Iran's "unacceptable" actions and coordinate a response, which may include new sanctions.

Biden said that Iran is "way off course," but confirmed he does not support an attack on Iran's nuclear sites.

Biden added that he would be speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu soon.

ALSO READ- 8 Israeli soldiers killed in Lebanon; Hezbollah claims 3 Merkava tanks destroyed

Middle East crisis escalates

The Middle East is on the brink of regional war after Iran launched over 180 missiles into Israel on Tuesday, marking its largest assault on the country. This attack has prompted strong warnings from both Tel Aviv and Washington to retaliate against Tehran.

The Israeli army is also engaged in combat with Hezbollah, an armed group based in Lebanon. On Wednesday, eight Israeli soldiers were killed, marking the deadliest day for Israel's military on the Lebanon front in the past year amid ongoing border clashes with its Iranian-backed adversary.

ALSO READ- Why did Israel ban UN chief Guterres, and what are his views on Middle East crisis?

There's need for a ‘return message’ to Iran: Top American diplomat

The Biden administration is working to align its response to Iran's attack with Israel, while acknowledging that the Middle East is on a “knife's edge”, said US deputy secretary Kurt Campbell, adding that any escalation could threaten both Israeli and US interests.

ALSO READ- ‘Strike Khamenei next’: Israeli official calls for action, Iran leader remains in ‘safe location’

Speaking at a virtual event hosted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Campbell described Iran's actions as "deeply irresponsible" and stressed the need for a "return message."

He added, "While we recognise the importance of a response, we are concerned about the potential for broader escalation. This could lead to sustained hostility that would jeopardise not only Israel but also our strategic interests."

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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