President Joe Biden cut short his weekend trip to Delaware and returned to the White House as Iran launched dozens of drones towards Israel, set to arrive in a matter of hours. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) detected Iran’s attacks just hours before Biden’s departure was announced.
National Security Council Spokesperson Adrienne Watson stated, “Iran has begun an airborne attack against Israel. President Biden is being regularly updated on the situation by his national security team and will meet with them this afternoon at the White House.”
The reported drone launch follows a suspected Israeli strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, on April 1, which further escalated tensions in the region. Iran also captured an Israel-linked cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, indicating an imminent attack.
President Biden reaffirmed the United States’ support for Israel’s security, stating, “Our support for Israel’s security is ironclad. The United States will stand with the people of Israel and support their defense against these threats from Iran.”
The region is already facing heightened tensions with Israel’s offensive in Gaza and ongoing exchanges of fire between the IDF and Hezbollah along the Israel-Lebanon border. Biden warned Iran against launching the attack, emphasizing the U.S.’ commitment to defending Israel.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan reiterated the United States’ commitment to Israel’s security in a call with his Israeli counterpart. The IDF issued an alert pausing educational activities and limiting gatherings in response to the escalating situation.
Tensions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Biden have been increasing, with the president calling for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza while still moving forward with an $18 billion sale of fighter jets to Israel. The Biden administration has faced internal dissent over its support for Israel’s actions in Gaza, as highlighted in internal State Department memos.