As tensions in the Middle East escalate, the United States has expressed concerns about a potential imminent attack on Israel by Iran and Hezbollah. Axios reported that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned G7 counterparts about the growing threat, with a possible attack starting as early as Monday.
US Diplomatic Efforts
Secretary Blinken reportedly convened a conference call with G7 allies to coordinate and apply last-minute diplomatic pressure on Iran and Hezbollah to prevent a broader regional conflict. While no specific timeframe was given beyond the potential start of an attack on Monday, the urgency of the situation has prompted heightened diplomatic activity.
US Defence and Presidential Actions
US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart on Sunday, reaffirming Israel’s right to self-defence against threats from Iran and its proxies. The discussion also covered measures to enhance protection for both Israel and US forces in the region.
President Joe Biden is expected to meet with his national security team on Monday to review the situation. Additionally, Biden will speak with Jordan’s King Abdullah as part of efforts to address the escalating crisis.
Israeli Response and Considerations
In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a meeting with senior military officials on Sunday to discuss a potential preemptive strike against Iran. The meeting, which included Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi, Mossad Head David Barnea, and Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar, explored the possibility of a preemptive action if substantial evidence of an impending Iranian attack was obtained. However, security officials expressed reservations, emphasising that any such action would require clear intelligence indicating that Tehran was preparing to strike.
Netanyahu declared on Saturday, “Israel is in a multifront war against Iran’s axis of evil. We are striking every one of its arms with great force. We are prepared for any scenario – both offensively and defensively.”
Context and Recent Developments
The heightened speculation about a potential Iranian attack follows the recent assassinations of Hezbollah military chief Fuad Shukr in Beirut and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Iran has accused Israel of these killings and has vowed retaliation, further inflaming the situation in the region.