A further escalation is looming in the Middle East as Israel braces for a multi-day attack from Iran and its allies. The situation has intensified following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr, which has prompted a strong response from Tehran. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned that an Iranian strike on Israel could happen as early as Monday, with expectations of coordinated attacks involving drones and missiles from multiple fronts.
Iranian officials have vowed a decisive retaliation against Israel, asserting their right to respond to perceived violations of their sovereignty. In response to the escalating tensions, the US has increased its military presence in the region, dispatching warships and fighter jets to support Israel and deter Iranian aggression. The situation remains precarious, with both sides preparing for potential conflict as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions continue.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the country is prepared for any scenario, emphasizing their readiness to respond to aggression from the Iranian axis of resistance, which includes Hezbollah, Hamas, and other militant groups. As fears of a regional war mount, the international community watches closely, urging restraint and dialogue to prevent a full-scale conflict.