United States and Israel Reported to Be in Dispute Over Iranian Oil

The United States is reportedly disappointed with the scale of Israel’s aerial attack on Iranian fuel depot infrastructure over the weekend. This disagreement marks the first prominent point of contention between the two allies since military operations against Iran began, according to reporting by Axios citing sources familiar with the matter.

The Saturday strikes targeted approximately 30 fuel storage facilities across various regions of Iran, exceeding the scope that US officials had anticipated following prior Israeli notification to Washington about the operation.

Major fires were reported in Iran’s capital, Tehran, with thick smoke visible rising above fuel storage tanks and industrial zones.

Israeli military officials stated that the targeted fuel depots were used by the Iranian government to supply fuel to various parties, including its military units.

US officials said Israel had informed American military leaders before the operation was conducted, yet Washington remained surprised by the extensive reach of the assault.

“The President does not like attacks on oil facilities. He wants to save the oil, not burn it. And it reminds people of rising petrol prices,” stated an adviser to US President Donald Trump.

US officials are concerned that strikes against infrastructure serving Iranian civilians could have strategic consequences, potentially strengthening public support for Iran’s leadership by turning public opinion against the attacks. Damage to oil infrastructure also drives increases in global oil prices.

“We do not think that was a good idea,” said a senior US official.