U.S. officials are concerned that Israel might attack Iran during Gallant's visit to the U.S. They also added that Israel has failed to keep its promise to inform the U.S. of its plans before taking dramatic actions, which reduces the likelihood that the U.S. will take an active part in the response alongside Israel against Iran.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Defense Minister Yoav Galant on Sunday evening, and American officials reported that the two discussed possible responses but not Israel's final decision on what it can do and when.
The options being considered are strikes targeting Iranian military and intelligence infrastructure, air defence, and energy facilities; Gallant and Austin did not discuss nuclear facilities as possible targets, the officials said.
Gallant was supposed to meet with Austin in Washington on Wednesday—a trip initiated by Gallant—but the trip has now been postponed at the request of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Three American officials said they are concerned that the Israeli response could come while Gallant is meeting with Austin.
After Iran launched about 200 ballistic missiles towards Israel last week, U.S. military officials discussed the options for joining Israel in its retaliation against Iran. The U.S. has long supported Israel with intelligence, and this support may continue during Israel's retaliatory attacks against Iran.
The officials added that Israel's failure to provide the U.S. with concrete assurances that it would inform the U.S. of its plans well in advance of its actions has reduced the likelihood of the U.S. taking an active part in Israel's response.
