US, Saudi Arabia on high alert as threat of Iranian attack looms

United States and Saudi Arabia have boosted vigilance following intel shared between two nations that Iran could be preparing for an impending attack in Middle East, Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday. Following warning, National Security Council has asserted that while it is concerned about looming threat, it will actively respond in defence if  attack happens. 

“We are concerned about threat picture, and we remain in constant contact through military and intelligence channels with Saudis. We will not hesitate to act in defense of our interests and partners in region,” government agency said in a statement. 

One of three unnamed US officials who confirmed that intel was exchanged, said that imminent attack could occur “soon or within 48 hours.” While no US consulates in Middle East have taken issued responses or guidelines yet, both US and Saudi Arabia remain on high alert. Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder revealed that officials of US military  “are concerned about threat situation in region.”

“We’re in regular contact with our Saudi partners, in terms of what information y may have to provide on that front. But what we’ve said before, and I’ll repeat it, is that we will reserve right to protect and defend ourselves no matter where our forces are serving, wher in Iraq or elsewhere,” Ryder said. State Department spokesperson Ned Price also commented on warning and said that US was “concerned about threat picture.”

tensions between Iran and US

warning comes as United States continues to condemn Iran for its involvement in two of world’s biggest crises at moment- crackdown on anti-hijab protesters, and use of Iranian drones in Russia’s war against Ukraine. threat also comes amid retaliation by Iran, which has accused US and or rival nations of instigating protests in country. 

Fueling conflict are sanctions, that have been imposed by Biden ministration on Iranian officials for lethal crackdown on protesters who have taken to streets after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini was arrested by Iran’s morality police for allegedly wearing her hijab improperly, and later died in custody.