Iran Could Direct Proxies to Attack U.S. Targets Abroad, Officials Warn
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- U.S. and Western security officials are monitoring signs that Iran may direct proxies to carry out retaliatory terrorist attacks against American targets in Europe and the Middle East if President Trump orders large-scale strikes against Iran.
- Intelligence intercepts indicate increased planning and coordination of potential attacks, though no specific plots have been detected yet.
- Concerns include Iran potentially enlisting Yemeni Houthis to attack Western shipping in the Red Sea and Hezbollah or Al Qaeda affiliates targeting U.S. bases or embassies in Europe.
- The ambiguity around the Trump administration’s possible military actions against Iran complicates threat assessments, as Iran may perceive a U.S. offensive as an existential threat and escalate conflict accordingly.
- Experts warn that Iran could use proxy attacks to raise the
