In response to the Israeli military’s strike on military targets in Iran last night, J Street President Jeremy Ben-Ami said:

Israel’s strike last night on Iranian drone and missile facilities appears to be a limited, calibrated and clearly telegraphed response to Iran’s ballistic missile barrage against Israel several weeks ago following the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

Iranian leaders cannot have launched a volley of missiles at Israel without expecting a response. Like all states, Israel has a right to defend itself in accordance with international law.

American pressure on Israeli leaders has significantly shaped last night’s response, with emphasis on preventing civilian casualties, a strict focus on strategic military targets, and preserving space for de-escalation by avoiding strikes on oil and energy facilities or nuclear sites.

We commend President Biden for his leadership and the restraint shown by the Israeli government in this volatile moment. These efforts, which J Street strongly supported, have significantly reduced the risk of further escalation toward all-out regional war.

Our deepest hope is that last night’s strike draws a line under this dangerous cycle of retaliation. We call on the United States and the international community to act swiftly to de-escalate tensions and prevent further retaliation. Every actor with influence on Israeli and Iranian leaders must urge restraint and ensure cooler heads prevail.

President Biden must also work urgently to turn down the temperature in the region – that includes all necessary pressure on Israel to stop blocking aid in Gaza, an urgent ceasefire and hostage release deal, durable international political and security arrangements that can bring Israeli military operations in Lebanon to an end, and laying out a clear path out of this morass and toward a safe, free and secure future for all.