Biden expects Iran to carry out direct attack on Israel soon

President Joe Biden said the US expects Iran to launch an attack against Israel “sooner rather than later” but warned Tehran against pressing ahead.

An attack of such magnitude would significantly escalate tensions in the Middle East, jeopardizing the efforts of Washington and its allies to contain Israel’s conflict with Gaza from escalating into a broader regional crisis. The ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza, which commenced in October, has already claimed over 33,000 lives and left the Palestinian enclave ravaged by destruction.

When questioned by reporters regarding his message to Iran, President Biden tersely responded, “Don’t.” He reiterated the United States’ unwavering commitment to defending Israel, affirming support and assistance in safeguarding the nation against any Iranian aggression.

As Israel braces for potential retaliation following the recent strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Western capitals express deep concern over the precarious situation in the region, fearing an escalation beyond control.

Tel Aviv remains prepared to counter any reprisals stemming from the April 1 strike that resulted in the death of Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi and six other Iranian officers, although Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement. Tehran, in turn, has vowed to retaliate.

President Biden refrained from divulging classified information but hinted at the possibility of an Iranian attack occurring “sooner rather than later.”

Amidst escalating tensions, Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, asserted that Israel “must be punished and shall be” for what he deemed an assault tantamount to an incursion onto Iranian soil.

John Kirby, President Biden’s national security communications adviser, emphasized that the United States is reassessing its military posture in the region in response to Tehran’s threat and is closely monitoring developments.