US Prepared for Possible Significant Attacks in Middle East by Iran, White House Says

• The U.S. has increased its regional force posture in anticipation of potential significant attacks by Iran or its proxies in the Middle East, according to White House national security spokesperson John Kirby.
• Kirby highlighted shared concerns with Israel regarding a possible Iranian-backed attack, following accusations against Israel for the assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran last month.
• Israel has been on high alert since a missile attack in the Golan Heights and subsequent retaliatory actions, including the assassination of a senior Hezbollah commander and Hamas political leader Haniyeh.
• The Pentagon has deployed additional military assets to the region, including a guided missile submarine and the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, although the latter is currently near the South China Sea.
• Oil prices surged by over 3% amid fears of a widening conflict, while Israeli forces continued operations near Khan Younis in Gaza amidst international efforts to prevent further escalation.

Source: Reuters