Blinken told G7 Iran and Hezbollah could attack Israel in next 24 hours - Axios

YEREVAN, AUGUST 5, ARMENPRESS. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told his counterparts from the G7 countries on Sunday that an attack by Iran and Hezbollah against Israel could start as early as Monday, Axios reported citing three sources who were briefed on the call.

Iran and its ally Hezbollah have vowed to respond to the assassinations of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.

The U.S. Secretary of State told his counterparts “It’s unclear what form the retaliation will take,” according to Axios. He said the U.S. doesn't know the exact timing of the attacks but stressed it could start as early as the next 24-48 hours.

Blinken asked the other foreign ministers to apply diplomatic pressure on Iran, Hezbollah and Israel to maintain maximum restraint.

He also told the G7 foreign ministers that the boosting of U.S. forces in the region was for defensive purposes only, according to the report.

One source who was on the call said Blinken “sounded frustrated” when he briefed the ministers on recent talks with Israel over a Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal, noting that the administration felt it was "close to a breakthrough" before the assassination in Tehran. Now a deal is needed more than ever, Blinken added.