President Joe Biden has issued a warning to Iran against an expected attack on Israel, leading to the U.S. increasing its troop presence in the Middle East in preparation for a potential strike on Israeli or Western interests in the region. Tensions have escalated following a suspected Israeli airstrike on the Iranian embassy in Damascus that resulted in the death of seven Iranians, including a leader of the Revolutionary Guards. Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has vowed revenge and accused Israel of the attack.
Army Gen. Erik Kurilla of U.S. Central Command has been in Israel to discuss the situation, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been reaching out to China, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey to urge Iran not to escalate. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has assured Israel of U.S. support in defending against potential Iranian attacks. Meanwhile, Shia militias loyal to Iran have warned of holding the U.S. responsible for any actions against Iran, Syria, or southern Lebanon.
The U.S. State Department issued a security alert for U.S. government employees in Israel, restricting personal travel outside major metropolitan areas due to political instability in the region. The potential Iranian attack was initially expected to occur last week, but following Biden’s warning, preparations are being made for a potential strike after the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The situation remains tense as both the U.S. and its allies monitor Iran’s actions closely.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com