WASHINGTON – The Biden administration has made it clear that they see a significant distinction between Israeli actions targeting the Iranian-backed militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah, and Iran’s retaliatory missile attack against Israel, which they have condemned as escalatory. In carefully measured statements, officials in the administration have expressed support for the surge in Israeli attacks against Hezbollah leaders in Lebanon while simultaneously calling for peace and promising retribution after Iran’s missile strike on Israel.

President Joe Biden commended both the U.S. and Israel militaries for successfully countering the missile barrage, affirming full support for Israel’s defensive actions. Secretary of State Antony Blinken labeled the Iranian missile attack as “totally unacceptable” and urged the world to condemn it.

Despite concerns that Israel may have provoked Iran’s response, national security adviser Jake Sullivan described Iran’s actions as a “significant escalation.” Just a week after urging an immediate cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah, the administration’s stance has evolved as Israel continues its ground incursions in Lebanon following targeted strikes that resulted in the deaths of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Iranian Revolutionary Guard Gen. Abbas Nilforushan.

The U.S. has consistently voiced its support for Israel’s right to self-defense, emphasizing the evolving situation on the ground. While acknowledging Israel’s actions to eliminate threats posed by Hezbollah, officials stress that the ultimate goal remains a cease-fire.

At the Pentagon, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stated that the U.S. is dedicated to preventing broader conflict in the Middle East but supports Israel’s defensive measures against Hezbollah. The U.S. will work closely with Israel to address any potential escalation and ensure the safety of citizens on both sides of the border.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller justified Israel’s actions against senior Hamas and Hezbollah leaders as self-defense, contrasting it with Iran’s support for these designated terrorist organizations. He emphasized the distinction between Israel’s targeted strikes and Iran’s state-sponsored aggression.

However, the administration’s robust defense of Israel may pose challenges, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears undeterred by U.S. warnings. Analysts suggest that U.S. influence on Netanyahu may be waning, potentially leading to heightened risks in the region.