White House Warns of Imminent Iranian Ballistic Missile Attack on Israel
In a significant development, the White House has issued a warning that Iran is preparing to launch a ballistic missile attack against Israel. The alert comes a day after the Israeli military conducted “limited, localized and targeted ground raids” against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
“The United States has indications that Iran is preparing to imminently launch a ballistic missile attack against Israel,” a senior White House official revealed. Tehran has vowed to retaliate against Israel for a series of recent attacks on Iran and its allied militias, including Hezbollah, across the Middle East.
Iran’s Planned Missile Attack on Israel
White House officials indicated that the impending attack could be as severe or more significant than the offensive in April. During that period, Iran fired 170 drones, 30 cruise missiles, and 120 ballistic missiles at Israel, according to an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson. Most of these projectiles were intercepted by Israel’s air defense systems.
US Supports Israel’s Defensive Preparations
The White House affirmed its support for Israel’s defensive measures. “We are actively supporting defensive preparations to defend Israel against this attack,” the official noted, warning that any such action by Iran would have severe repercussions.
Increased Regional Tensions
The announcement has heightened concerns that escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel could escalate into a full-blown regional conflict. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, IDF spokesperson, confirmed that Israeli forces are at their “highest readiness—both offensive and defensive.” He reiterated, “Iranian fire on the state of Israel will have consequences. We have plans and we have capabilities.”
US Embassy Issues Warning
In response to the potential threat, the US embassy in Jerusalem has urged all its personnel and their families to shelter in place until further notice. “The US embassy in Jerusalem reminds US citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire and unmanned aircraft system intrusions, often take place without warning,” the embassy stated.
The ongoing tensions have created an uncertain and volatile security environment in Israel and the broader region, with the potential for further escalations depending on the evolving political situation.