USA TODAY is reporting that Iran is almost certain to retaliate against the U.S. following U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Former U.S. officials and diplomatic experts tell USA TODAY that the timing, location, and form of that response remain uncertain.
According to USA TODAY, Brett McGurk, the Biden administration coordinator for the Middle East, said missiles, militias, and hostage-taking are Iran's "go-to" options. USA TODAY reported that President Trump warned that any retaliation would be met with even greater force. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said he hoped the scope of the attack would deter Iran, USA TODAY writes.
USA TODAY writes that former National Security Adviser John Bolton suggested Iran's decision could destabilize the regime. Former counterterrorism official Javed Ali said a strong counterpunch is risky, according to USA TODAY.
Karim Sadjadpour, a Carnegie Endowment for International Peace senior fellow, told USA TODAY that this is more likely to open a new chapter in the U.S.-Iran conflict. USA TODAY writes that Iran could strike U.S. troops, embassies, or infrastructure, attack oil facilities, or launch terrorist attacks. Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery said cyberattacks are a credible and growing risk, according to USA TODAY.
USA TODAY writes that Iran's response will be dictated by Supreme Leader Khamenei, whose survival instincts and defiance are in tension. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence believes Khamenei wants to avoid direct conflict with the U.S., USA TODAY writes.
USA TODAY writes that Iran's ability to respond is diminished by attacks on its forces and the death of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad. McGurk said the U.S. must be ready for any response, but hopes Iran will stand down, according to USA TODAY.