New York: The United States has stated that Iran is preparing for an imminent israel attack, warning that such an action would result in “severe” repercussions for Tehran.
This warning comes as Israel announced the initiation of a ground operation in Lebanon to target Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia.
This operation follows the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli airstrike last week.
Imminent Israel Attack: US Reaction
A senior White House official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said to AFP.
The United States has information indicating that Iran is preparing to launch a ballistic missile attack against Israel soon.
We are actively supporting Israel’s defensive preparations to counter this potential imminent israel attack.”
In April, the U.S. and other Western allies assisted Israel in defending against a coordinated Iranian missile and drone attack, which Iran carried out in response to an Israeli airstrike on its consulate in Damascus.
The U.S. official further added, “A direct military attack by Iran on Israel will have serious consequences for Tehran.”
Although Iran previously stated that Nasrallah’s death would lead to Israel’s “destruction”.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry clarified on Monday that it does not intend to deploy its troops to confront Israel.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning to Iran on Monday, emphasizing that “there is no place in the Middle East that Israel cannot reach.”
He also predicted that “a future where Iran is finally free” may arrive “sooner than people expect.”
Attack Plan:
A direct attack by Iran on Israel could significantly escalate tensions in the region.
It is heightening concerns of a broader conflict that the U.S. and other global powers wish to avoid.
The United States has expressed cautious support for Israel’s efforts to dismantle Hezbollah’s capabilities in northern Israel, while President Joe Biden has called for a ceasefire.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated, “We are closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East. The United States remains committed to defending Israel.”
Washington announced on Monday that it is increasing its military presence in the Middle East by deploying a “few thousand” more troops, along with additional fighter jets.
Late Monday, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin conveyed support to his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, for “dismantling Hezbollah’s attack infrastructure” along the Lebanon border.
Following Hamas’ unprecedented assault on Israel on October 7, Hezbollah began low-intensity strikes on Israeli forces.
Cross-border fire between Israel and Hezbollah has persisted throughout the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
