Intelligence sources state Iran is planning attacks.
Saudi Arabia has shared intelligence with the United States that Iran is planning to launch a series of attacks in the region in an effort to distract from domestic protests. It is unclear what form the attacks will take but the Iranians are expected to target Saudi Arabia as well as Irbil, Iraq.
“We are concerned about the threat picture, and we remain in constant contact through military and intelligence channels with the Saudis,” a National Security Council spokesperson said. “We will not hesitate to act in the defense of our interests and partners in the region.”
The Pentagon press secretary said the “threat situation in the region” has American officials “concerned.” He said, “We will reserve the right to protect and defend ourselves no matter where our forces are serving, whether in Iraq or elsewhere.
Iran has been experiencing social unrest for nearly two months. Protests have erupted across the country since the death of a young woman in Iranian custody in mid-September. Some reports say that the nationwide protests, led by women, have resulted in upwards of 3,000 Iranian citizens being killed by security forces while thousands more have been arrested.
Iran has faulted the United States, Israel, and Saudi Arabia for the protest movement. “This is our last warning because you are interfering in our internal affairs through these media,” Major General Hossein Salami said in remarks reported by Iranian state media. “You are involved in this matter and know that you are vulnerable.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the president and secretary of defense to seek God’s wisdom regarding Iran’s threats.
- For U.S. officials and leaders of Saudi Arabia as they prepare for potential attacks.
- For safety for U.S. intelligence agents who operate in the Middle East.
Sources: Wall Street Journal, National Review, Western Journal
