Amid reports of an imminent Iranian response to the Israeli bombing of the Iranian consulate in Damascus, the United States announced that it is preparing to send reinforcements to the Middle East, with growing fears that Tehran may soon launch an attack on Israel. A U.S. defense official in Washington stated, "We are sending additional resources to the region to enhance regional deterrence efforts and bolster the protection of U.S. forces." Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Charles Brown mentioned that the U.S. is "working to prevent the outbreak of a broader war while simultaneously ensuring the protection of all U.S. forces in the region." He added, "We are well-prepared to ensure our readiness for any potential developments in the region," according to CBS News.