Biden Prepares Response to Iran-Linked Drone Attack Amid Tension
January 30, 2024President Joe Biden has prepared a response to the drone strike in Jordan that killed three American soldiers, attributing blame to Iran for arming the attackers.
Biden's handling of Iran has faced criticism from the right, including former President Donald Trump, who has labeled him as weak.
The US faces pressure to compel Iran to alter its behavior, amidst concerns over potential escalation of regional tensions.
Russia and China have urged for calm, with the US looking to China to leverage its influence in reducing Middle Eastern and Red Sea tensions.
In an election year, Biden is cautious to avoid entangling the US in a broader Middle Eastern conflict, despite the ongoing high-stakes situation.
The White House insists on the necessity of a measured response to the drone strike without escalating the situation, though specific plans and timing remain undisclosed.
Potential US retaliatory measures could target Iranian personnel in Syria or Iraq, or Iranian naval forces in the Persian Gulf.
Biden is intent on maintaining focus on establishing a ceasefire in Gaza while managing the response to the drone attack.
Summary based on 43 sources