Biden’s red line moment with Iran

Secretary of State Anthony Blinken warned Tuesday that the United States would respond “quickly and decisively” to any attack on U.S. forces from Iran or its proxies. This is a welcome message aimed at deterring the mullahs of Tehran and their agents. But will the president enforce the red line he seems to be drawing? He hasn’t done it yet.

“The United States does not seek conflict with Iran,” Blinken told the United Nations. “We do not want this war to spread. But if Iran or its proxies attack American personnel anywhere, make no mistake. We will defend our people. Mr. Blinken’s remarks constitute the US’s strongest warning to Iran yet, from the top US official. They go beyond President Biden’s previous vague warnings to discourage Hezbollah or Iran from getting involved in the Hamas-Israel war.