U.S. officials say Iran could retaliate within days after American airstrikes
Top officials in the United States now believe that Iran could strike back at American troops stationed in the Middle East within the next 48 hours. The warning comes just days after the U.S. launched airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, escalating already fragile relations between the two countries.
Though talks are still underway to prevent further conflict, American defense sources say they are bracing for possible military retaliation from Tehran.
After the airstrikes, President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that any response targeting American personnel or assets would be met with greater force.
“If they strike back, what we unleash will be far stronger than what we’ve just done,” Trump said following the bombings.
U.S. Boosts Protection in Iraq and Syria
The U.S. military has taken steps to guard its regional assets, with General Dan Caine confirming increased protection measures across Iraq and Syria. This includes enhanced air defense and repositioning of troops to limit their exposure.
Currently, the U.S. has nearly 40,000 troops in the Middle East, backed by fighter jets, missile defense systems, and naval vessels that monitor enemy movement. However, base locations remain exposed to possible strikes.
To reduce the risk of direct hits, the Pentagon last week began relocating aircraft and ships from key bases viewed as vulnerable. This includes moving assets from the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest U.S. base in the region, home to roughly 10,000 American troops.
These preemptive steps come amid fears that Iranian forces may launch precision strikes or mobilize their regional allies for surprise attacks.
Tehran Vows to Fight Back, But Plays Cautious
Iran has promised to defend its sovereignty, but so far has not carried out any major counterattack. Notably, Tehran has not closed the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway through which 25% of global oil passes — a move that would severely impact global trade and escalate the crisis.
Observers believe Iran may be weighing its options carefully, trying to avoid a full-scale war while still making a statement of defiance.
The coming days will be critical as both Washington and Tehran walk a tightrope between war and diplomacy.
