Israel Braces for Possible Iranian Attack in Retaliation for Airstrike
Tel Aviv — Israel is on high alert as U.S. officials warn of a potential direct attack on Israeli soil by Iran in retaliation for a strike that killed seven Iranian military officers almost two weeks ago. The strike, which targeted the Iranian embassy in Syria’s capital, has sparked threats of revenge from Iran.
According to two U.S. officials, a major Iranian attack against Israel could occur as soon as Friday, involving more than 100 drones and dozens of missiles aimed at military targets within the country. The retaliation is expected to involve both Iranian forces and proxy groups in the region that have received additional arms from Iran.
President Biden, when asked about the imminent attack, stated, “I don’t want to get into secure information, but my expectation is sooner than later.” He urged Iran to refrain from escalating the situation.
Tehran has not disclosed its plans for retaliation, raising concerns about the potential for a wider regional conflict. The U.S. State Department has advised Americans in Israel to avoid traveling outside major cities, which are better protected by the Iron Dome missile defense system.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has assured that Israel is prepared to defend itself both defensively and offensively. However, security experts warn that an all-out war could have devastating consequences for the region.
The U.S. has sent a senior general to Israel to coordinate a response to a potential Iranian attack. Joint Chiefs chairman Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr. emphasized the importance of preventing war and protecting forces in the region.
As tensions escalate, both Iran and Israel are carefully weighing their responses to avoid further escalation. The situation remains precarious, with the potential for dire consequences if either side miscalculates.