WASHINGTON — Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) urged Israel to be more cautious in its choice of targets following strikes on Iran's fuel storage systems in Tehran last weekend. In a message posted on social media platform X, Graham acknowledged Israel's military capabilities in the airstrike campaign against Iran aimed at weakening the Tehran regime. He wrote that Israel has demonstrated significant ability to pressure the clerical regime in Tehran, while expressing appreciation from the U.S. side. However, Graham emphasized that the selection of military targets must be carefully considered. According to him, Iran's future will depend on its people once the current regime collapses; therefore, attacks should not undermine the country's capacity for economic recovery. Israel conducted strikes on approximately 30 fuel depots and energy facilities in Tehran and surrounding areas. In addition to energy targets, field sources also noted that Mehrabad Airport in Tehran was hit, sending up plumes of smoke. The explosions caused massive fires and thick columns of black smoke covering the sky of the Iranian capital. Some reports indicated that following the major fires, a phenomenon of toxic black rain and toxic smoke fell over many areas around Tehran. According to sources from Axios, Israel pre-notified the Trump administration of the attack plan, but the scale of the operation took Washington by surprise. Some U.S. officials worry that attacks on energy infrastructure could cause the Iranian people to rally in support of the Tehran regime. Graham argued that the long-term goal of the campaign should be directed toward giving the Iranian people the opportunity to rebuild their country after the current regime ends. He emphasized that Iran's oil economy will play a crucial role during the reconstruction phase. Graham has long been seen as a strong supporter of the military campaign Operation Epic Fury targeting Iran. In recent statements, he has also called for increased military pressure on Hezbollah forces in Lebanon. Graham's hardline rhetoric drew reactions from some political figures, including Meghan McCain, daughter of the late Senator John McCain, who suggested such statements could cause public concern about the risk of escalating the conflict.

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