The Biden administration is reportedly anticipating an imminent Iranian assault on Israel and is preparing to assist in its defense, according to three American sources cited by Axios. The potential Iranian offensive, in retaliation for the death of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, could resemble the attack on April 13 but might be on a larger scale and involve Hezbollah from Lebanon.
However, there is concern that, unlike the previous incident four months ago, rallying the same regional and international coalition to support Israel might prove more challenging this time, as noted by Adnkronos news agency.
U.S. President Joe Biden acknowledged that the killing of Ismail Haniyeh complicates efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza with Hamas. Speaking at Andrews Air Force Base, where he greeted prisoners exchanged with Russia, Biden expressed deep concern about the escalating Middle Eastern tensions. He emphasized the importance of advancing ceasefire efforts during a direct conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Ismail Haniyeh is scheduled to be laid to rest in Qatar today. His body arrived in Doha from Iran yesterday, following a large funeral in Tehran. The funeral prayer will take place at Qatar’s national mosque after the Friday prayers, with the burial set for Lusail.
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