President Joe Biden issued a stern warning to Iran's supreme leader, stating that the United States would retaliate if Iran or its affiliated proxies carried out any attacks on American service members stationed in the Middle East. The warning took place during a joint news conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the White House.

Addressing the press, President Biden emphasized, "My warning to the Ayatollah was that if they continue to move against those troops, we will respond. And he should be prepared." The president's statement comes as a response to a series of recent attacks on U.S. troops and military installations in the region.

The attacks coincide with the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, which has long received support from Tehran in terms of finances and logistics. In a surprising assault on October 7th, Hamas militants launched an attack from the Gaza Strip, resulting in the death of over 1,200 Israelis and the kidnapping of multiple individuals. Additionally, rockets were launched towards cities including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. In response, Israel initiated a siege of Gaza and carried out retaliatory missile strikes, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives.

As Israel strives to defeat Hamas and end its rule over the Gaza Strip, the United States has publicly pledged its support. However, Tehran-backed proxy groups have threatened to target U.S. military installations if Israel proceeds with its plan to invade and occupy Gaza.

Last week, a series of attacks occurred over several days, targeting bases in Iraq and Syria. Tragically, an American contractor lost their life due to a cardiac episode while fleeing from a false alarm at Iraq's al-Asad airbase.

On Thursday, a U.S. Navy destroyer in the northern Red Sea intercepted numerous missiles and drones launched by the Iranian-backed Yemeni Houthi rebels, who were deemed as a potential threat.

Moreover, on Monday, the Pentagon spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder, announced that American troops stationed at the al-Tanf garrison in southern Syria successfully shot down two drones directed towards their positions. Fortunately, no service members were injured. Gen. Ryder also emphasized that the Pentagon would hold Iran accountable for these strikes, considering their past support for these militant groups.

President Biden's warning to Iran underscores the United States' commitment to protecting its service members and ensuring stability in the Middle East. As tensions continue to escalate, the international community waits to see how Iran responds to this stern message from the United States.