President Joe Biden has issued a warning to Iran, urging the nation to refrain from launching a retaliatory strike against Israel amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Biden’s message, delivered during a press briefing on Friday, emphasized the United States’ support for Israel’s defense.
The remarks from President Biden come as concerns mount over Iran’s potential response to the bombing of its consulate in Damascus, Syria, earlier this month.
Biden expressed his expectation that an Iranian strike on Israel could happen “sooner than later,” underscoring the urgency of the situation.
In response to questions from ABC News Chief White House Correspondent Mary Bruce, President Biden reiterated his administration’s commitment to Israel’s defense, stating, “We are devoted to the defense of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed.”
The Biden administration has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent a full-blown conflict in the region.
High-level U.S. officials have been working behind the scenes to pressure Iran into backing down from its threat of retaliation.
Meanwhile, the United States has been bolstering its military presence in the Middle East, deploying troops and other assets to deter Iran from launching a large-scale attack.
The Pentagon confirmed that Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command, had expedited a trip to Israel to meet with senior Israeli military leaders in light of recent developments.
Despite the diplomatic efforts, concerns persist over the possibility of Iran retaliating against Israel. U.S. officials have warned that Iran could use drones and missiles to target “regional assets,” prompting the State Department to impose new restrictions on U.S. personnel in Israel.
The renewed tensions stem from a recent strike on an Iranian facility in Syria, which Iran attributes to Israel.
The strike resulted in the death of 12 individuals, including Gen. Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior leader in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
