U.S. officials report that Iran has carried out drone attacks on Israel

Tensions Rise as Israel Prepares for Potential Iranian Attack

Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Daniel Hagari announced on Saturday that Israel would be working closely with the U.S. and regional partners to intercept potential missile and drone launches targeting Israeli government sites. The Biden administration is anticipating the attack to involve 100 drones, dozens of cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles.

President Joe Biden cut short his trip back to the White House to meet with his national security team, including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in preparation for the growing threat of an Iranian strike. The administration expects the attack to target Israeli government sites, not civilian or religious sites, and not U.S. assets in the area.

Earlier on Saturday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard seized a Portuguese-flagged cargo ship with links to Israel in the Strait of Hormuz, a move condemned by the White House. In response to the escalating tensions, airspaces in Israel and throughout the region were temporarily shut down, and Israel announced the closure of schools and restrictions on gatherings in certain areas.

The strained relationship between Iran and Israel has been escalating since the start of the war in Gaza in October, with recent accusations from Iran against Israel for an attack on its consulate in Damascus. Iranian leaders, including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have pledged retaliation, prompting Israel to prepare for a potential counterattack.

As the situation continues to develop, the White House is closely monitoring the situation and communicating with Israel to ensure preparedness for any potential threats. Stay tuned for further updates on this breaking news story.