Washington: The United States is bracing for what it believes could be a ‘significant’ attack on Israel by Iran, potentially occurring this week, according to John Kirby, White House National Security Communications Advisor. Speaking on Monday amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Kirby emphasized the need for preparedness following discussions between President Joe Biden and the leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy. These talks aimed to de-escalate the situation.
“We share the same concerns and expectations that our Israeli counterparts have with respect to potential timing here. Could be this week,” Kirby informed reporters, as reported by The Times of Israel. He further stated, “We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks.”
Kirby highlighted that the call between the leaders was focused on expressing support for Israel’s defense and sending a clear message against any escalation of violence or attacks by Iran or its proxies.
In a joint statement released on Monday, President Biden, alongside leaders from the UK, France, Germany, and Italy, urged Iran to cease its threats of military action against Israel.
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“We called on Iran to stand down its ongoing threats of a military attack against Israel and discussed the serious consequences for regional security should such an attack take place,” the joint statement, according to the White House, read. The statement also stressed the urgent need for the swift delivery and distribution of aid.
“We expressed our full support for ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and reach a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. We endorsed the joint call from President Biden, President Sisi of Egypt, and Amir Tamim of Qatar to renew talks later this week with an aim to concluding the deal as soon as possible, and stressed there is no further time to lose,” the statement continued, as reported by ANI.
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The statement concluded with a call for all parties to fulfill their responsibilities, emphasizing the necessity of unhindered aid delivery. It reiterated support for Israel’s defense against Iranian aggression and attacks by Iran-backed terrorist groups.
Israel is on high alert for a possible retaliation after Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed in Tehran last month, leading to promises of “punishment” from Iran. While Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility for Haniyeh’s death, it had previously issued threats against him and other senior leaders.
