Top US General Takes Impromptu Trip to Middle East Amid Growing Iran Threat
The top U.S. general started an unexpected visit to the Middle East on Saturday to discuss ways to prevent any further escalation in tensions that could lead to a larger conflict, as the region prepares for a possible Iranian attack on Israel.
Air Force General C.Q. Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, initiated his journey in Jordan and expressed his intention to visit Egypt and Israel in the upcoming days to gather insights from military leaders.
His trip coincides with U.S. efforts to secure a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which Brown believes would help reduce tensions if achieved.
“As I speak with my counterparts, we are exploring measures to deter any significant escalation and ensure that we are taking appropriate precautions to prevent a broader conflict,” Brown told Reuters before arriving in Jordan.
The Biden administration has been working to contain the aftermath of the conflict in Gaza, which has been ongoing for nearly a year. The conflict has caused significant destruction in Gaza, led to clashes between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and prompted attacks on Red Sea shipping by Yemen’s Houthis.
Simultaneously, U.S. forces in the Middle East have faced attacks from militia groups aligned with Iran. To counter potential threats, the U.S. military has reinforced its presence in the region, deploying the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group following the Theodore Roosevelt group.
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The U.S. has also deployed an Air Force F-22 Raptor squadron and a cruise missile submarine to the region for added security.
“We have increased our capabilities to send a clear message to deter a broader conflict and protect our forces in case of an attack,” Brown emphasized, highlighting the importance of safeguarding American troops.
Iranian Response
Iran has promised a strong retaliation following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, which Iran attributed to Israel. Israel has not confirmed or denied any involvement in the incident.
Hezbollah has also vowed to respond after Israel killed a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut recently.
While Iran has not disclosed the target of a potential response to the Haniyeh killing, U.S. officials are closely monitoring for signs of Iran following through with its threats.
“We are monitoring intelligence and military movements closely,” said Brown. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi conveyed to French and British officials that Iran reserves the right to retaliate, as reported by IRNA.
In a retaliatory strike on April 13th, following the killing of two Iranian generals in Syria, Iran launched a wave of drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles toward Israel. Fortunately, most of the weapons were intercepted before reaching their targets by Israel, the U.S., and their allies.
Brown refrained from speculating on potential actions by Iran and its allies but expressed his intent to discuss various scenarios with his Israeli counterpart.
“In particular, during discussions with my Israeli counterpart, we will explore their possible responses depending on provocations from Hezbollah or Iran,” Brown stated.
The current conflict in the Gaza Strip began on October 7, 2023, with Hamas incursions into Israeli communities, resulting in casualties and abductions. Since then, Israel’s military operations have caused significant devastation in Gaza, displacing millions and leading to tragic consequences.
