In WASHINGTON the United States has urged Israel to halt attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure, according to a report by Axios citing sources familiar with the discussions. The request highlights emerging tensions between the allies over the scope of Israel’s military campaign against Iran.
U.S. officials conveyed the message to senior Israeli officials, including military leadership, asking that strikes on Iranian fuel depots and oil-related facilities be avoided. The request comes after Israeli forces reportedly targeted dozens of fuel depots across Iran over the weekend.
Concerns over escalation and oil markets
Washington is concerned that attacks on energy infrastructure could escalate the conflict and trigger wider retaliation across the Middle East. Iranian officials have warned that continued strikes on oil facilities could prompt Tehran to target energy sites across the region.
Such a scenario could threaten global oil supplies and push energy prices significantly higher. Oil prices have already surged above $100 per barrel amid fears that the conflict could disrupt shipments through key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. officials also worry that striking infrastructure used by civilians could undermine efforts to weaken Iran’s leadership by rallying domestic support around the government.
Strategic differences between allies
The U.S. reportedly views attacks on Iran’s energy sector as a last-resort option rather than a routine target in the current military campaign. According to sources cited by Axios, the Trump administration wants to preserve Iran’s oil industry for potential post-war economic recovery and stability.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also stressed that Israeli strikes on fuel depots were not part of Washington’s objectives in the conflict.
Despite the disagreement, Israel has said it is not seeking a prolonged war but intends to continue operations until its strategic goals against Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities are achieved.
Growing regional tensions
The war between Israel and Iran has intensified over the past two weeks following joint U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and subsequent retaliation from Tehran. The conflict has expanded beyond the two countries, raising fears of a wider regional confrontation involving Iranian-backed groups and critical energy infrastructure across the Middle East.
Analysts warn that further attacks on energy facilities could destabilize global oil markets and increase the risk of broader economic and security consequences worldwide.
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