The United States has warned that Iran is preparing to launch an imminent ballistic missile attack against Israel, emphasizing that any such move would result in “severe” repercussions for Tehran.
The warning comes amid heightened tensions, following Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militia, after its leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike last week.
A senior White House official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed to AFP that Washington has “indications” of Iran’s plans and is actively supporting Israel’s defensive preparations. However, Israel’s military has not yet detected the specific threat.
The Israeli military spokesman, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, reassured that Israel’s air defense systems are fully operational and its combat aircraft remain on high alert.
The U.S. official reiterated that a direct Iranian attack on Israel would carry “severe consequences” for Tehran, signaling the potential for further escalation in the region.
This development follows increasing regional tensions. In April, Iran retaliated for an Israeli strike on its consulate in Damascus by launching a missile and drone attack on Israel. Iran has vowed revenge for Nasrallah’s death, stating it would lead to Israel’s “destruction,” though Tehran has not committed to deploying soldiers.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iran’s reach in the Middle East is not beyond Israel’s capabilities, predicting that Iran’s current regime would fall sooner than expected.
In response to the escalating conflict, the U.S. has increased its military presence in the Middle East, deploying additional troops and fighter jets. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has expressed support for Israel’s efforts to dismantle Hezbollah’s military infrastructure in southern Lebanon, where cross-border skirmishes have persisted.
As tensions grow, world powers, including the United States, have expressed concern over the potential for a broader regional conflict that could destabilize the Middle East further.
