The U.S. is warning that a full-blown war could erupt soon, as Iran is expected to launch a retaliatory attack within days after America’s recent strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
“Iran’s retaliatory attack could happen within the next day or two,” a senior U.S. official told Reuters on Monday, speaking on condition of anonymity. Another official confirmed that while the risk is high, the U.S. is still trying to avoid war through diplomatic efforts.
Iran has vowed to respond after the U.S. bombed key nuclear facilities over the weekend. In response, President Donald Trump said any Iranian attack would be met with “a force far greater than that used in the weekend U.S. attacks.”
The Pentagon is preparing for the worst. “We have increased protection of troops in the region,” said General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This includes forces in Iraq and Syria.
Nearly 40,000 U.S. troops are deployed across the Middle East. Many operate air defense systems, fighter jets, and warships that can shoot down incoming missiles. But some bases remain vulnerable to attack.
Last week, the U.S. moved aircraft and ships away from vulnerable bases, including Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar — the largest U.S. base in the Middle East, home to about 10,000 troops.
Despite Tehran’s threats, Iran has not yet attacked U.S. bases or closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route that carries about a quarter of the world’s oil. But with tensions skyrocketing, the coming days could push the region toward full-scale war.
