Iran has urged the US to "step aside" as it readies a response to a suspected Israeli strike on its consulate in Syria, while Iran's proxy in the Middle East has warned of preparedness for war.

Mohammad Jamshidi, the Iranian president's deputy chief of staff for political affairs, conveyed Iran's caution to Washington, advising against getting entangled in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategies. The US reciprocated by requesting Iran to avoid targeting American interests.

Reports indicate heightened US vigilance, anticipating a "significant" Iranian retaliation against Israeli or American assets in the region. Concerns within the Biden administration suggest potential attacks within Israel, particularly targeting military or intelligence installations rather than civilians.

In an unusual move, the US directly communicated to Iran about its lack of prior knowledge regarding Monday's strike in Damascus, aiming to avert potential retaliatory strikes against its forces or bases in the Middle East.

Iran has vowed to deliver a "slap" to Israel, though the timing and method—whether direct or through Lebanon-based proxy groups—are yet unclear.

The strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, resulting in the deaths of seven Iranians, including two generals, marked a significant escalation, as previous Israeli actions in Syria had targeted Iran-affiliated assets but not diplomatic premises.

Israel has heightened alertness, taking measures like canceling leave for combat troops, mobilizing reserves, and strengthening air defenses. Signal interference over Tel Aviv indicates precautions against potential drone or missile threats.

Hezbollah, Iran's prominent proxy, affirmed readiness for any confrontation with Israel but emphasized its non-interference in Iran's strategic decisions. This development underscores escalating tensions in the region, with implications for broader regional stability.

Iran has urged the US to "step aside" as it readies a response to a suspected Israeli strike on its consulate in Syria, while Iran's proxy in the Middle East has warned of preparedness for war.

Mohammad Jamshidi, the Iranian president's deputy chief of staff for political affairs, conveyed Iran's caution to Washington, advising against getting entangled in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategies. The US reciprocated by requesting Iran to avoid targeting American interests.

Reports indicate heightened US vigilance, anticipating a "significant" Iranian retaliation against Israeli or American assets in the region. Concerns within the Biden administration suggest potential attacks within Israel, particularly targeting military or intelligence installations rather than civilians.

In an unusual move, the US directly communicated to Iran about its lack of prior knowledge regarding Monday's strike in Damascus, aiming to avert potential retaliatory strikes against its forces or bases in the Middle East.

Iran has vowed to deliver a "slap" to Israel, though the timing and method—whether direct or through Lebanon-based proxy groups—are yet unclear.

The strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, resulting in the deaths of seven Iranians, including two generals, marked a significant escalation, as previous Israeli actions in Syria had targeted Iran-affiliated assets but not diplomatic premises.

Israel has heightened alertness, taking measures like canceling leave for combat troops, mobilizing reserves, and strengthening air defenses. Signal interference over Tel Aviv indicates precautions against potential drone or missile threats.

Hezbollah, Iran's prominent proxy, affirmed readiness for any confrontation with Israel but emphasized its non-interference in Iran's strategic decisions. This development underscores escalating tensions in the region, with implications for broader regional stability.