Blinken Warns G7: Iran Could Attack Israel on Monday

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has cautioned G7 countries about a potential Iranian attack on Israel, possibly as soon as Monday, August 5th, reports Axios. In a conference call with US allies, Blinken aimed to generate urgent diplomatic pressure on Iran and Hezbollah to avert a full-scale regional war.

Blinken clarified that the recent deployment of US warships and fighter jets to the Middle East is solely for defensive purposes.

The G7 ministers issued a statement expressing deep concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East, which they fear could lead to a wider conflict. The statement urged all parties to avoid perpetuating the cycle of retaliatory violence, reduce tensions, and work towards de-escalation, emphasizing that no nation would benefit from further escalation.

The White House anticipates that Iran’s response might mirror the missile and drone attacks launched against Israel on April 13, but potentially on a larger scale as other adversaries of Israel may join in.

In response to the situation, Israel is reportedly considering a preemptive strike. According to the Times of Israel, a meeting involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mossad and Shin Bet chiefs, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi was held to discuss this possibility. A strike would only be approved if there is irrefutable evidence that Iran is preparing to engage in combat.

Tensions have been high following the alleged Israeli involvement in the assassinations of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and top Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. This has prompted Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to vow retaliation against Israel, calling it a duty to avenge Haniyeh’s death.

Reports suggest that Mossad hired Iranian agents who planted bombs in the guesthouse where Haniyeh was staying. Once it was confirmed that Haniyeh was in the building, the bomb was remotely detonated, allowing the agents to escape.