The United States has raised its security alert level due to concerns of potential attacks by Iran or its proxies in the Middle East, possibly within this week. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby cited fears of Iranian retaliation for the recent assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran.
In response to these heightened threats, the US has bolstered its military presence in the region. Kirby highlighted the importance of readiness for possible “significant” attacks and reaffirmed US support for Israel’s defense efforts.
To address the growing tensions, the Pentagon has deployed a guided missile submarine and is expediting the arrival of the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group to the Middle East. However, the carrier strike group, currently stationed in the South China Sea, is expected to take over a week to reach its destination.
The rise in regional tensions has led to a surge in oil prices, which increased by 3% on Monday. This marks the fifth consecutive day of price rises, reflecting concerns that a regional conflict could disrupt global oil supplies.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces are continuing their operations near Khan Younis in Gaza. Efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza are ongoing, aiming to prevent the conflict from escalating into a broader regional confrontation involving Iran and its allies.