Middle East Crisis Israel Braces for Iranian Response After Assassinations

Israel is preparing for retaliatory attacks following the assassination of a Hamas leader. The U.S. is sending additional combat aircraft and warships to the Middle East to aid Israel’s defense in case of an attack. Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III ordered the movements to protect Israel and prepare for potential targeting of American forces by Iran-backed groups. Iran arrested several individuals in response to the killing and its supreme leader has ordered a strike on Israel. Palestinians performed funeral prayers for the slain leader, but anger was subdued as their focus remained on the ongoing bombardment of Gaza.