US Braces for Possible Major Iran Attack on Israel Soon

The White House has issued a stark warning regarding the potential for Iran to launch a retaliatory strike against Israel as soon as this week. U.S. officials emphasize the need for preparedness against a significant attack.

This warning follows recent escalations involving military forces in the Middle East, with the U.S. amplifying its military presence. Officials state that these public announcements of military maneuvers are meant to deter Iran and help ease regional tensions.

On Sunday, the Pentagon announced that the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier, was being accelerated to the region. Additionally, the guided missile submarine USS Georgia was also being sent to the Middle East, marking a rare occurrence of such public detail regarding military movements.

John Kirby, spokesperson for the National Security Council, indicated that the U.S. assessment aligns with reports from Israel regarding an imminent Iranian strike. He stated, “We share the same concerns and expectations that our Israeli counterparts have with respect to potential timing here, could be this week.”

Kirby added, “We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks.” This comes on the heels of two high-profile assassinations linked to the region’s ongoing conflicts: Hezbollah commander Fouad Shukr and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh were both killed last month. Israel took responsibility for the attack on Shukr, while Iran blames Israel for Haniyeh’s death in Tehran.

The assassinations have heightened tensions, raising concerns that Iran may retaliate against Israel, similar to prior strikes carried out earlier this year.

In an effort to address these escalating tensions, President Joe Biden conversed with leaders from France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom regarding the U.S. military’s increased presence in the region. Kirby communicated that President Biden feels confident in the U.S.’s ability to support Israel, if necessary.

“Nobody wants to see it come to that, which is why we continue to have these diplomatic conversations in earnest over the last few days to see what can be done to de-escalate this situation,” Kirby explained.

According to U.S. officials, the recent announcement regarding the USS Georgia is aimed at conveying a message of deterrence. This deployment highlights the U.S. military’s continuous presence in the Middle East, signaling that additional resources can be mobilized if needed.

In April, several Iranian drones and ballistic missiles were intercepted by a mix of U.S. and Israeli air defense systems, showcasing the ongoing military readiness in the region.

Leading up to any potential conflict, the U.S. has discreetly reinforced its military resources in the area to assist Israel. In contrast to previous actions, this time, the United States has publicly stated that it is sending additional Air Force F-22 fighters and Navy F/A-18s, in addition to deploying more destroyers alongside the Lincoln carrier group.

U.S. officials assert that these announcements serve to deliver a clear message to Iran about the military capabilities available to counter potential attacks.

The USS Georgia, equipped with 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, is considered a powerful tool of deterrence within this complex geopolitical situation.

The USS Abraham Lincoln, currently stationed in the South China Sea, will take time to arrive in the Middle East to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt, which is positioned off the coast of Oman. U.S. military planners are considering how to utilize the approaches of both carriers as the situation evolves.

Kirby stated, “We obviously don’t want to see Israel have to defend itself against another onslaught, like they did in April. But if that’s what comes at them, we will continue to help them defend themselves.”

Meanwhile, the State Department remains committed to diplomatic efforts in hopes of preventing any significant escalation in this volatile situation. Deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel reiterated the ongoing diplomatic push aimed at persuading Iran to temper its response.

Officials express cautious optimism that Iran will limit its retaliation, as an escalation could disrupt cease-fire discussions that the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar are gearing up to restart later this week.

Last week, a joint statement from mediators urged both parties to return to negotiations, conveying not just a sense of urgency for resolution but also a message to Iran about the potential for agreement, which would discourage military action.

Nevertheless, Hamas stated on Sunday that it would not engage in the upcoming discussions, creating uncertainty over the possibility of resumed talks. Additionally, an ongoing dispute between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant regarding support for hostage negotiations and cease-fire initiatives could further complicate communication with Iran regarding pending agreements.

Despite these issues, Patel mentioned that the mediators “fully expect talks to move forward as they should” to bring the deal to conclusion.