Iran Prepares Possible Attack on Israel, U.S. Warns

As tensions rise between Iran and Israel, the world is on edge following an airstrike on April 1st on Iran’s embassy in Syria, which Iran has blamed on Israel. U.S. officials have suggested that Iran may be planning a retaliatory attack, raising concerns about a potential escalation in the Middle East amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

For several days, U.S. officials have been warning of the possibility of an imminent Iranian attack. President Joe Biden stated on Friday that he anticipates an attack “sooner than later,” while multiple reports have cited U.S. officials indicating that an attack could occur as soon as this weekend. In response to the escalating situation, Biden cut short his weekend trip to Delaware to return to the White House and consult with his advisers.

While no official confirmation has been made, several outlets have reported that a potential Iranian attack could involve missiles and drone strikes targeting military or government sites in Israel. These attacks could potentially be launched from within Iran by both Iranian forces and their proxy groups.

There have been reports of Iran repositioning military assets internally, although it remains unclear whether this is in preparation for an attack from within Iran’s borders or in anticipation of a response from Israel or the U.S. John Kirby, the communications director for the National Security Council, emphasized on Friday that the U.S. considers the threat from Iran to be “real, viable, and credible,” and is closely monitoring the situation.

The escalating tensions have led to global repercussions, with the U.S. issuing a travel warning advising citizens against visiting Israel, while the United Kingdom and France have also advised against travel to the region. Additionally, Iranian forces reportedly seized a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, which is believed to be linked to Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer, further exacerbating the situation.

In response to the growing threat, Biden has indicated that the U.S. is prepared to defend Israel against any potential attack, stating that “we will support Israel, we will help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed.” The U.S. has reportedly moved warships to the region in readiness to defend Israel, indicating the possibility of U.S. involvement in a military response if Iran proceeds with an attack.

Iran has responded to the embassy airstrike with strong rhetoric aimed at both Israel and the U.S. In a statement following the bombing, Iran’s U.N. ambassador, Zahra Ershadi, blamed the U.S. for supporting Israel and claimed that “the United States is responsible for all crimes committed by the Israeli regime.” Iran has also warned the U.S. against getting involved in what it perceives as Israel’s agenda, urging the U.S. to stay out of the conflict to avoid repercussions.

Despite these escalations, some reports suggest that Iran is seeking to avoid a wider conflict. Iranian sources have reportedly signaled to Washington their desire to avoid further escalation, with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian reportedly telling a German official that Iran is planning a limited and appropriate response to avoid further tensions. One U.S. official mentioned that Iran’s message to the U.S. has been “don’t mess with us, and we won’t mess with you.” The U.S. has denied any involvement in the embassy airstrike.

An Iranian attack on Israel could significantly escalate the crisis in the Middle East, potentially leading to further spillover from the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Israel has vowed to retaliate against Iran if it carries out an attack, raising concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict.

The airstrike on Iran’s embassy in Syria reportedly killed two Iranian generals and five officers. While Iran has blamed Israel for the attack, Israel has not claimed responsibility. Iran has long been a vocal supporter of Hamas and has criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza. It has also provided support to other proxy groups hostile to Israel, such as the Houthis in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Despite the tensions, life in Israel appears to be carrying on relatively normally, with no special orders issued by the government and citizens going about their daily lives. “We’re not going to sit around and be afraid,” said one resident of Tel Aviv.