The situation in the Middle East is “very serious” but the US is “prepared” for any potential Iranian attack, the Pentagon said, Anadolu reports.

“The situation right now in the Middle East is very serious, which is why we’re taking it so seriously, which is why Secretary (of Defense Lloyd) Austin has ordered additional capabilities into the region,” spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder told reporters.

Asked if an Iranian attack is possible this week, Ryder said: “That’s certainly possible.”

“The bottom line is, you know, I’m not going to speculate or try to guess when they might attack, other than to say, we need to take it seriously, and we are doing that. And so, we will be prepared and are prepared,” he added.