The atmosphere in the Middle East intensified on Thursday ahead of the potential Iranian counter-strikes as Israel declared its readiness for the incoming Iranian strikes. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has pledged “ironclad support” for its ally as the IDF remains highly alert for any upcoming threat after Iran warned the US of its intentions to launch a significant attack on Israel. BYTE: video 3: full video Joe Biden, US President
The head of US Central Command (CENTCOM) Gen. Erik Kurilla, arrived in Israel on Thursday morning to assess security challenges and efforts being made by Israel as it preps to take on Iran. Israel not only has strengthened its air defense, but also canceled leaves for combat units, while it gears up fully for counter-attack along with its strategic partners.
Notably, Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei on Wednesday asserted that “Israel must be punished” for its strikes on the Iranian embassy which claimed the lives of seven revolutionary guards, including two generals. BYTE: video 6: full byte Ayatollah Khamenei, Iran Leader Nonetheless, responding swiftly, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated that if Iran attacked from its territory, Israel would give a befitting reply.
Meanwhile, the US embassy in Israel announced that it was restricting the movement of its diplomats over security fears, stating that “out of an abundance of caution” staffers and their families are advised to not undertake personal travel outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Beersheeva areas until further notice. Over the last few days in the backdrop of a potential Iranian airstrike, Israeli and US officials across various departments and agencies have been in contact to prepare for the attack.
IDF Rear Admiral – Daniel Hagari while highlighting Israel’s strong strategic relationship with the US armed forces added that Iran’s counter-attack would highlight its intentions of escalating the already volatile situation in the Middle East. BYTE: video 8: start to 0.35 Daniel Hagari, IDF Rear Admiral
Since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, Hezbollah militants, backed by Iran, came out in support of the Hamas terrorists and have been trading fire with Jerusalem across Lebanon’s southern border, sending shock waves across the Middle East.
Comments