The Middle East was bracing for all-out war as Iran warned that it would “punish” Israel after an explosion – blamed on Tel Aviv – killed Hamas terrorist leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told G7 allies that Iran could attack Israel within 24 to 48 hours while Iran issued a NOTAM warning to pilots in its airspace, suggesting it could be preparing for a strike.
Hebrew media reported that Israeli leaders would consider a pre-emptive strike against Iran if it had airtight evidence that Tehran was planning an attack. Iranian-proxy and Lebanon-based terrorist group Hezbollah has already launched rocket and drone attacks at Israel on Monday.
Beruit’s airport was a scene of chaos as flights were cancelled while hundreds tried to escape Lebanon, fearing an all-out war. Foreign Secretary David Lammy on Saturday repeated calls for UK citizens in Lebanon to “leave now” amid heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.
US President Joe Biden was reportedly heading to the situation room to discuss the soaring tensions with his advisors while Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin ordered US warships and fighter jets moved to the Middle East.
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