In a press conference on Friday, President Joe Biden expressed his belief that Iran is likely to launch an attack on Israel in the near future. This comes amid heightened tensions following the bombing of Iran's consulate in Damascus, Syria earlier this month.

President Biden's message to Iran was clear and direct - "Don't." He emphasized the United States' unwavering commitment to the defense of Israel and assured that they will provide support and aid in protecting the nation from any potential Iranian aggression.

As the Biden administration scrambles to prevent an all-out regional war in the Middle East, high-level U.S. officials are working diligently behind the scenes to urge Iran to reconsider its retaliatory threats. The deployment of American troops, including naval assets equipped with the Aegis combat system, aims to deter Iran from launching a large-scale attack and safeguard U.S. forces in the region.

US officials have reported that Iran has readied over a hundred cruise missiles for a possible strike. This has prompted the US to closely monitor the situation and take precautions in light of the impending threat. Approximately 3,400 US troops are already stationed in Iraq and Syria, with tens of thousands more personnel in the Middle East region.

The Pentagon confirmed that General Michael "Erik" Kurilla, the commander of US Central Command, has expedited his previously scheduled trip to Israel to meet with senior Israeli military leaders in response to recent developments. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also engaged in a phone conversation with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, reaffirming the US's ironclad commitment to Israel's security against Iran and its proxies.

Despite not having direct diplomatic ties with Iran, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been actively engaged in discussions with counterparts in countries that do. He has strongly urged these nations to use their influence to dissuade Iran from escalating the situation through military actions.

The State Department has imposed new restrictions on US personnel in Israel as a precautionary measure, prohibiting personal travel outside of the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice. This move reflects the US government's heightened concern over potential risks.

The recent strike on an Iranian facility in Syria, which Tehran attributes to Israel, has further aggravated tensions in the region. The attack resulted in the death of 12 individuals, including General Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior leader in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. While Israel has not claimed responsibility for the incident, it has previously conducted airstrikes against Iranian-linked targets as part of its efforts to disrupt arms transfers to proxy groups in the region.

President Biden's firm stance and the mobilization of American forces demonstrate the seriousness with which the US views the escalating situation. The US remains committed to protecting Israel's security and is actively engaged in diplomatic channels to help de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict in the Middle East.