Israel is preparing for the possibility of retaliatory attacks from Iran and militant groups in response to the assassinations of the leaders of the Lebanon-based pro-Iran militia Hezbollah and the Islamic group Hamas. The United States is enhancing Israel’s defense while urging the country to agree to a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip.
According to a statement from the Italian Foreign Ministry, the foreign ministers of the G7 held a video conference on the 4th, expressing concerns about the risk of the Middle Eastern crisis expanding. News media Axios reported that three anonymous sources familiar with the video call said that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken informed G7 foreign ministers that attacks by Iran and Hezbollah on Israel could begin as soon as the 5th.
According to Axios, Blinken stated that while the U.S. does not have precise timing, they believe the attacks may start within 24 to 48 hours. According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, Blinken told G7 foreign ministers that “it is urgent to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu stated at the beginning of the Cabinet meeting on the 4th that “Israel is fighting on multiple fronts against the axis of evil led by Iran.” He added, “We are resisting attacks with full force. Our country is preparing for every possible scenario in both defense and offense.”
The U.S. Department of Defense is sending ships, fighter jets, and vessels equipped with ballistic missile defense capabilities to the Middle East, enhancing theirpresence in the region. At the same time, they are strongly urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to consolidate cease-fire negotiations in Gaza to prevent the escalation of nearly ten months of war.
Israeli officials stated that the imminent attacks are likely to be carried out simultaneously by Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Yemen-based Shiite armed group Houthis, and Iran.
Original title: Israel Braces for Attack by Iran as US Urges Gaza Cease-Fire (2) (excerpt)
(We will add and update reports regarding Secretary Blinken’s statements)