Iran Prepares Retaliatory Attacks on Israel

The recent targeted strikes against key figures in Hezbollah and Hamas, including the assassination of commander Fuad Shukr and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, have heightened tensions and led to fears of Iranian retaliation against Israel. Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah, while promising a response, remains cautious and indicated the need for a 'strong and calculated' retaliation, suggesting that any actions will be carefully considered. Concurrently, U.S. officials believe Iran may soon attack Israel as vengeance, with preparations underway to counter potential assaults from Iranian proxies, particularly Hezbollah. The Biden administration is concerned that an escalated response could complicate coalition efforts to thwart Iranian aggression similar to past missile barrages. Iranian leadership has publicly vowed revenge, framing the attacks as a violation of sovereignty, while also emphasizing their alliance with Palestinian resistance. This situation underscores the broader implications for regional stability and the potential for increased hostilities involving U.S. interests in the Middle East.