In response to the recent Israeli strike on an Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, U.S. officials reveal that both Israel and the United States believe Iran is preparing for retaliation. The Pentagon reports that the strike resulted in the elimination of several senior leaders of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Sources within the U.S. intelligence community have gathered information suggesting that Iran's proposed retaliatory attack may involve a combination of Shaheed loitering drones and cruise missiles. The exact timing and target of the attack remain unknown, though it is believed that an Israeli diplomatic facility may be a likely target. Experts surmise that the attack could occur sometime between now and the end of Ramadan next week.

One key aspect that remains uncertain is the launch point from where the drones and missiles will originate. Possibilities include Iraq or Syria, which would provide Tehran with plausible deniability, or even Iranian territory itself. The source of the attack could greatly influence the geopolitical implications and potential consequences of such an act.

A public funeral was held in Tehran on Friday to honor the seven members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps who were killed in the suspected Israeli strike in Damascus. The funeral was attended by General Hossein Salami, the IRGC's overall commander, who cautioned that Israel would face the consequences for assassinating Iranian military officers. However, no specific details were provided regarding how or when Iran plans to retaliate.

Concerned about potential Iranian retaliation targeting U.S. facilities, officials in the Biden administration have emphasized that the U.S. had no prior knowledge of the Israeli strike. During a recent phone call between President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Iranian threats to Israel were discussed. National Security Council coordinator for strategic communications, John Kirby, informed reporters that President Biden assured Prime Minister Netanyahu of U.S. support in Israel's self-defense against the publicly announced threats made by Iran.

Israel has already made public statements warning of its intention to retaliate, thereby exacerbating tensions in the region. An attack by Iran on an Israeli facility would escalate tensions even further, potentially leading to a regional war.

As the situation unfolds, the United States and its allies closely monitor the actions of Iran, while weighing the potential consequences of further escalation in the Middle East.