Iran-Israel clash looms: White House expects Iranian retaliation this week
White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby speaks during the daily press briefing at the White House, in Washington, D.C., July 31, 2024. (EPA File Photo)
The U.S. expects Iran and its proxies to launch attacks against Israel as soon as this week, following the assassinations of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in July.
State of play:
- National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby emphasized the gravity, stating, “We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks.”
- The Pentagon has deployed a guided missile submarine and accelerated the arrival of an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East.
Between the lines:
- President Biden held talks with leaders from the UK, France, Germany, and Italy, reinforcing support for Israel’s defense and advocating for de-escalation.
- The leaders collectively called for a cease-fire in Gaza amid global condemnation of Israel’s attacks targeting civilians.
Zoom out: The region remains on edge, with nearly 40,000 Palestinians killed during the 10-month war, and recent high-profile assassinations heightening the risk of a broader conflict.
