Former CENTCOM commander Joseph Votel warns that Iran typically signals its intentions to attack Israel beforehand, prompting heightened security measures in Israel and the US.
Following the targeted assassinations of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders, security concerns have intensified in Israel and the US as officials expect an imminent retaliation from Iran. On Monday, Iran hinted at the possibility of "punishment" against Israel for the alleged assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.
Iran's long-standing "ring of fire" strategy aims to encircle Israel with militant forces and engage in hostilities. Behnam Ben Taleblu, an Iran expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), explains that this strategy involves a 360-degree attack vector to strike Israel from multiple sides.
US Anticipates Imminent Iranian Attack on Israel, Bolsters Defenses
Iran relies heavily on proxy groups in the Middle East, providing funding, training, and armaments to 19 terrorist organizations. This includes Hezbollah, which receives $700 million annually, and Hamas, which receives $100 million.
Experts point out that the US and Israel have typically responded to Iranian attacks with more sophisticated methods, causing less human cost and pain for Iran. However, this approach has emboldened Tehran to believe that neither nation will retaliate with the same level of force that Iran is capable of inflicting on Israel.
US Anticipates Imminent Iranian Attack on Israel, Bolsters Defenses
Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani stated that Iran seeks regional stability but will punish the alleged aggressor to create deterrence against Israeli adventurism.
Israeli officials have been preparing their defenses and offensive capabilities in anticipation of Iran's impending attack. It is believed that Iran will attempt to overwhelm Israeli and American defenses through a multipronged assault utilizing advanced IRGC munitions and layered support from proxy forces positioned on Israel's borders.
US Anticipates Imminent Iranian Attack on Israel, Bolsters Defenses
Officials believe Iran's motive is to respond forcefully while avoiding a full-scale regional conflict. However, Taleblu warns that Iran's increasing comfort in coming out of the shadows is a concern for all parties seeking peace in the region.
Both Israel and the US are actively bolstering defenses and coordinating their response to the anticipated Iranian attack. Security experts emphasize that Iran typically signals its intentions before acting, indicating that the imminent threat is serious and requires vigilance.
US Anticipates Imminent Iranian Attack on Israel, Bolsters Defenses
