Reports indicate that Iran may opt for a non-escalatory response, but the US remains vigilant.

A US defense official informed Fox News on Friday that additional assets are being deployed to the Middle East region to bolster force protection for US forces. John Kirby, the US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, emphasized the seriousness with which the US is treating the potential threat, describing it as real, viable, and credible. He highlighted the ongoing communication with Israeli counterparts to ensure they are prepared to defend themselves.

US CENTCOM Gen. Michael Kurilla visited Israel and held discussions with IDF Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen Hezi Halevi and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant to assess military preparedness. The visit was prompted by the threats from Iran, according to Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, who refrained from speculating on specific threats but acknowledged Iran's promise of action.

Meanwhile, Iran has signaled to Washington that it intends to respond to Israel's attack on the Damascus consulate. However, reports suggest that Iran aims to avoid major escalation and will not act hastily. Reuters reported that Iran may pursue a measured response to the incident, seeking to minimize tensions.

The State Department issued new travel advisories on Thursday, restricting US government employees and their families from traveling outside major cities in Israel. The department warned of possible attacks by terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists, and other violent extremists.

Gen. Jack Keane of the Institute for the Study of War expressed his belief that an attack from Iran is inevitable, given the international attention surrounding the targeting of the IRGC headquarters in Syria. However, Keane argued that Iran desires a measured response and does not seek escalation, as it understands the economic implications and the potential loss it could suffer in the event of a full-scale war with Israel or the United States.

Behnam Ben Taleblu, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, suggested that Iran may benefit from allowing tensions to remain high without launching an actual attack. Delaying the response creates an expectation for a larger attack, which could lead to a stronger retaliation from Israel. Launching a failed attack would undermine Iran's image, while a successful attack would likely trigger a cycle of escalation that Iran cannot afford.

As tensions persist in the region, the US continues to closely monitor the situation and take steps to ensure the safety of its forces and support its Israeli counterparts. The US remains committed to avoiding an outright war but refuses to shy away from using its leverage to deter any potential threats.

It is essential for all parties involved to exercise caution and work towards de-escalation to prevent further violence and instability in the region.