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In recent discussions at the Pentagon, Jennifer Griffin reported on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, focusing on the U.S.’s role in supporting Israel amidst drone and missile strikes. Griffin highlighted Israel’s successful use of American-made F-35 stealth fighters to establish air superiority, something that the Russian Air Force has struggled to achieve in Ukraine for over three years. The Israeli military’s capability to launch effective attacks against mobile ballistic missile launchers was also emphasized, with support from U.S. missile destroyers in the Mediterranean.
Griffin detailed the strategic importance of the U.S. Navy’s destroyers in intercepting missiles aimed at Israel, and noted the deployment of the aircraft carrier Nimitz, which carries historical significance tied to past U.S. efforts in the region. The report underscored the limitations of Israel’s air force when it comes to targeting deeply buried parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, which would likely require U.S. assistance with advanced munitions.
During a conversation between Bret Baier and Prime Minister Netanyahu, skepticism was voiced regarding Iran’s signals for potential de-escalation. Baier recounted Netanyahu’s dismissal of Iran’s foreign minister’s claims that negotiating peace was possible if Israel halted its attacks. Instead, Netanyahu framed Iran’s overtures as disingenuous given its ongoing hostile rhetoric toward Israel and the U.S.
Discussion continued about the fortified Fordow facility in Iran and its implications for nuclear development amid the ongoing conflict. Baier noted that while Netanyahu couldn’t confirm explicit U.S. responses regarding requests for military assets like Bunker Buster bombs, there is a consensus that the U.S. must take action to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities.
On the geopolitical landscape, Dana Perino pointed out Russia’s attempts to portray itself as a peacemaker in the Israel-Iran conflict while simultaneously avoiding resolution in its own territorial disputes. As global leaders convene at the G7, implications of these unfolding events on international diplomacy were also anticipated.
