US Prepares for Possible Attacks on Israel Amid Middle East Tensions, Says John Kirby
Washington, DC [US], August 13: The United States is preparing for potential ‘significant’ attacks on Israel this week, according to John Kirby, the White House National Security Communications Advisor. This announcement comes amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
President Joe Biden recently held discussions with leaders from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy to de-escalate the situation. Kirby stated, “We share the same concerns and expectations that our Israeli counterparts have with respect to potential timing here. Could be this week. We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks.”
In a joint statement, President Biden and the leaders of the UK, France, Germany, and Italy urged Iran to cease its threats of military action against Israel. The statement emphasized the need for aid delivery and distribution, and support for efforts to de-escalate tensions and reach a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza.
The tensions have escalated following the death of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last month, which led to promises of retaliation from Iran. Israel has not confirmed or denied responsibility for Haniyeh’s death but had previously threatened him and other senior Hamas figures for their involvement in terrorist attacks on October 7.
The situation further intensified after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that Haniyeh and his bodyguard were killed in an attack in Tehran. Additionally, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported the death of top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon, which was a response to a rocket attack at Golan Heights that killed 12 children.
Doubts Revealed
US -: US stands for the United States of America, a country in North America.
Israel -: Israel is a country in the Middle East, located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea.
Middle East -: The Middle East is a region that includes countries like Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and others. It is known for its historical and cultural significance.
John Kirby -: John Kirby is a spokesperson for the US government, specifically for national security matters.
White House -: The White House is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States.
National Security Communications Advisor -: This is a person who helps the President and the government talk about safety and security issues.
Joe Biden -: Joe Biden is the current President of the United States.
UK -: UK stands for the United Kingdom, a country in Europe that includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
France -: France is a country in Europe, known for its rich history and culture.
Germany -: Germany is a country in Europe, known for its strong economy and history.
Italy -: Italy is a country in Europe, famous for its art, history, and food.
Iran -: Iran is a country in the Middle East, known for its ancient history and culture.
Hamas -: Hamas is a group that controls the Gaza Strip in Palestine and often has conflicts with Israel.
Ismail Haniyeh -: Ismail Haniyeh was a leader of Hamas, a group in Palestine.
Tehran -: Tehran is the capital city of Iran.
Hezbollah -: Hezbollah is a group based in Lebanon that often has conflicts with Israel.
Fuad Shukr -: Fuad Shukr was a commander in Hezbollah, a group in Lebanon.
de-escalation -: De-escalation means trying to make a tense or dangerous situation less intense or dangerous.
aid distribution -: Aid distribution means giving out help, like food, water, and medical supplies, to people who need it.
