The Middle East remains on high alert as Iran prepares to retaliate against Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31, 2024. Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has vowed revenge, stating that ‘retaliation for the blood of Haniyeh is one of our duties because the assassination took place on our soil’. In response to the growing threat, the United States is preparing to send additional fighter jets to the Middle East to support Israel’s defense.Israel is bracing for a potential large-scale attack, with both defensive and offensive preparations underway. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the country is at its ‘highest level of alertness,’ warning that any aggressive action against Israel will be met with severe consequences. The Israeli government has taken precautionary measures, including distributing satellite phones to ministers and senior officials in case of damage to communication networks.However, the situation is complicated by conflicting pressures on Israel. While the US has reaffirmed its commitment to Israel’s security, President Joe Biden has reportedly expressed frustration with Netanyahu over the recent assassinations, including that of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. In a phone call on Thursday, Biden urged Netanyahu to stop escalating tensions and to work towards an immediate agreement for a prisoner exchange and ceasefire in Gaza.The international community is increasingly concerned about the potential for a wider regional conflict. The US is following a policy of ‘managed escalation’ to avoid a large-scale war, while also facing criticism for its support of Israel’s actions in Gaza. As tensions continue to rise, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether diplomatic efforts can prevent further escalation or if the region will descend into a wider conflict.
Key points
- Iran vows retaliation for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.
- The US is sending additional fighter jets to the Middle East to support Israel’s defense.
- President Biden urges Netanyahu to cease escalation and work towards a ceasefire in Gaza.
- Israel is on high alert, preparing for potential attacks from Iran and its proxies.
Contradictions👾While the US is sending military support to Israel, President Biden is also urging Netanyahu to de-escalate and work towards a ceasefire, highlighting the complex balancing act in US policy.
