U.S. Warns of Imminent Iranian Ballistic Missile Attack Against Israel Amid Rising Regional Tensions

The United States has warned that Iran is preparing an imminent ballistic missile attack against Israel, intensifying an already volatile situation in the Middle East. According to senior U.S. administration officials, intelligence indicates that Iran is actively planning this offensive, and both U.S. and Israeli forces are on high alert in response. The attack could be a response to Israel’s recent military actions, which include ground operations in southern Lebanon aimed at Hezbollah targets.

U.S. officials have made clear that there will be “severe consequences” if Iran follows through with the missile launch. The U.S. is currently supporting Israel’s defensive preparations, and has deployed significant military assets, including an aircraft carrier in the Gulf of Oman and multiple Navy destroyers in the Mediterranean Sea, to assist Israel. These assets are capable of intercepting incoming missiles, should Iran proceed with its plans. Additionally, advanced fighter jets, such as F-16s and F-22 Raptors, are positioned throughout the region to bolster air defenses against potential missile strikes​(Military Times)​(ITVX).

The situation has escalated following a series of attacks between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militant group in Lebanon. The death of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, in a recent airstrike has prompted threats of retaliation, adding more tension to an already complex geopolitical environment. Amid these developments, Israel has advised residents in northern areas near the Lebanese border to evacuate, as it anticipates further attacks by Hezbollah in response to its military operations​(ITVX).

In parallel, the U.S. military has moved additional fighter jet squadrons to the region and has maintained a guided-missile submarine in the Gulf, capable of carrying more than 150 Tomahawk cruise missiles. This bolstering of military presence is aimed at deterring Iran and supporting Israel in any forthcoming conflict. The White House has emphasized that any direct attack by Iran would not only provoke a strong military response from Israel but also potentially draw in U.S. forces, complicating the security dynamics in the Middle East further​(Al-Monitor).

This new escalation underscores the fragility of the situation in the Middle East, where every action risks sparking broader regional conflict. The U.S. and Israel are now focusing on defending against the potential missile attack, while the international community is urging restraint from all parties to avoid a deeper crisis.

For more details, you can refer to sources like Military Times and ITV News.