The White House is preparing for a potential Iranian attack on Israel, following the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Three U.S. officials reportedly told Axios that the administration is convinced Iran will retaliate. One official said that US Intelligence has spotted clear indications that Iran plans to retaliate. In response to the escalating situation, the U.S. has advised its citizens in Lebanon to “shelter in place” as tensions rise between Hezbollah, Israel, and Iran.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that any attacks on Israel will result in severe retaliation. This statement comes after Israeli airstrikes killed top Hezbollah and Hamas commanders, including Fuad Shukr and Muhammad Deif. The U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Lebanon to Level 4: Do Not Travel.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed retaliation for Haniyeh’s death. U.S. officials anticipate that any Iranian response will follow the pattern of their April 13 attack on Israel but could be larger and potentially involve Lebanese Hezbollah. The U.S. Embassy in Beirut has further urged Americans in southern Lebanon to leave the area.
The situation has also led to a warning from Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who has promised a significant response to the Israeli airstrike that killed his top military adviser.
The assassination of Haniyeh in Tehran has intensified the already volatile situation. U.S. officials indicate that Iran and its proxies might need a few days to prepare a coordinated attack, with U.S. military assets on high alert in the region. U.S. and international airlines, including United, Delta, Lufthansa, and Swiss, have suspended flights to and from Israel amid the growing tension. The Israeli military remains on high alert, with Netanyahu reaffirming Israel’s readiness to respond to any aggression.
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