President Joe Biden has pledged unwavering support for Israel amidst concerns of potential retaliation from Tehran following an attack that resulted in the deaths of senior Iranians. Biden cautioned that Iran is threatening a significant reprisal after Israel's recent strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria.
Iran's leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, equated the attack in Damascus to an assault on Iran itself, vowing punishment for what he termed as an attack on Iranian territory. The specific form of any potential retaliation remains uncertain, with direct strikes by Iran posing the risk of escalating the conflict further.
Analysts suggest that Iran may resort to proxies like Hezbollah to mount an attack on Israel. Hezbollah's substantial arsenal, including rockets and missiles capable of reaching southern Israel, could inflict significant damage.
In response to warnings from Iranian officials, Israel remains on high alert, with the Israel Defense Forces canceling leave for soldiers and calling up reservists to strengthen air defense units. Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs Israel Katz warned of retaliatory action if Iran were to launch an attack from its territory.
Meanwhile, US forces are in discussions with Israeli counterparts about the threat of an Iranian attack. Biden reiterated US commitment to Israel's security, emphasizing the "ironclad" nature of the support.
These developments come amid heightened tensions in the region, exacerbated by recent clashes between Israel and Hamas. Biden has voiced disagreement with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's approach to the conflict, urging for a ceasefire.
Efforts to de-escalate the situation involve diplomatic engagements, including discussions between Middle Eastern nations and Iran, facilitated by Biden's senior advisor Brett McGurk. Despite differences between the US and Israel, both nations have conveyed a strong message to Iran that any attack on Israel will be met with a forceful response.
In Gaza, the conflict has taken a heavy toll, with thousands of casualties reported, primarily among women and children, as a result of the ongoing offensive sparked by Hamas's initial attack.
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