US President Joe Biden issued a stark warning on Friday, expressing his expectation of Iran launching an attack on Israel “sooner than later.” While refraining from divulging classified information, Biden emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Don’t,” when asked about his message to Iran.

In a press briefing at the White House on Friday, Biden reiterated the United States’ steadfast commitment to Israel’s defense, citing recent deployments of additional defense assets to West Asia in response to heightened tensions. The move follows reports of Hezbollah, a Lebanese group backed by Iran, launching multiple Katyusha rockets towards Israeli artillery positions, escalating the already volatile situation.

The recent exchange of fire stems from Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon, according to Hezbollah. The Israeli military reported intercepting approximately 40 projectiles originating from Lebanese territory, with no reported injuries. This escalation comes in the wake of an Israeli attack on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria, resulting in the deaths of three Iranian generals.

The region remains on edge, with the White House acknowledging a “real,” “credible,” and “viable” threat of further Iranian strikes. Lebanon and Israel, though technically at war since Israel’s inception, have largely adhered to a ceasefire agreement since the 2006 Lebanon war.

However, the recent violence has taken a toll on both sides, with at least 363 fatalities reported in Lebanon, predominantly Hezbollah fighters, and approximately 18 casualties in Israel, including both civilians and military personnel. Tens of thousands of civilians have been displaced as tensions continue to escalate along the border.