Biden Administration Braces for Potential Iranian Retaliation, Collaborates with Israel on Defense Measures

President Joe Biden arrives at Dover Air Force Base, in Dover, Del., on September 29, 2024, before boarding Air Force One to return to Washington. 
Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP



The Biden administration is increasingly concerned about the possibility of an imminent Iranian attack following the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in southern Beirut by Israeli forces. According to a U.S. official, joint defense measures are being set up between the U.S. and Israel in anticipation of possible Iranian retaliation. While specific details about the potential attack remain undisclosed, changes in U.S. military posture are underway as tensions in the region escalate.

This rising concern follows the Biden administration’s leadership of a multinational defense initiative earlier in the year, when Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles at Israel in response to the bombing of senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard officers in Syria. With the situation now more volatile, the U.S. is on high alert for any threats to its personnel or interests in the region.

The Pentagon made it clear on Sunday night that any aggression from Iran or its allies would be met with a decisive response. “Should Iran, its partners, or its proxies use this moment to target American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take every necessary measure to defend our people,” said Defense Department spokesperson Gen. Patrick Ryder. The U.S. military has increased its presence in the region, notably deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to bolster security.

Nasrallah’s death represents a major blow to Hezbollah and Iran’s influence in the Middle East. Leading Hezbollah for decades, Nasrallah was one of the most prominent figures in Iran’s regional network. His elimination marks a significant setback for Tehran and its aspirations in the region. Despite the loss, Hezbollah has vowed to continue its struggle against Israel, raising fears of a wider conflict.

Tensions also flared between the U.S. and Israel last week over a proposed ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. The Biden administration, alongside 11 international allies, had announced a “breakthrough” ceasefire plan, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu quickly dismissed. Instead of backing the proposal, Israel escalated its military operations, seizing the opportunity to target Nasrallah.

U.S. officials expressed frustration over the mixed messages from Israel. A senior U.S. official claimed that while Israel had initially agreed to the ceasefire, it shifted its stance at the last minute. Israel later explained the situation as a “misunderstanding,” clarifying that while they supported the diplomatic proposal, they saw it as a starting point for negotiations rather than an immediate ceasefire.

Despite the setback, the Biden administration maintains that diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation are ongoing. John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman, emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution, warning that a full-scale conflict with Hezbollah or Iran would not lead to sustainable peace in the region. “If you want to get those folks back home safely and sustainably, we believe that a diplomatic path is the right path,” Kirby said.

As the situation remains tense, many are watching closely to see how the U.S. and Israel will navigate the challenges ahead. For more updates on this developing story and other current events, follow my Twitter/X handle at https://x.com/dark_web24.