Officials Warn Iran Could Direct Proxies to Attack U.S. Targets Abroad

U.S. and other Western security officials say they are monitoring increasingly worrisome signs that Iran could direct proxies to conduct retaliatory terrorist attacks against American targets in Europe and the Middle East if President Trump orders large-scale strikes.

They have not detected specific plots, but heightened “chatter” — electronic intercepts of terrorists’ communications — suggests some level of planning and coordination. Intelligence and counterterrorism officials are particularly worried that Tehran could enlist the Houthis in Yemen to resume attacks on Western shipping in the Red Sea, or that Hezbollah sleeper cells or Al Qaeda affiliates could be ordered to strike American bases or embassies in Europe.

The Pentagon has rushed additional Patriot batteries and other missile defenses to help protect the 30,000 to 40,000 American troops stationed in the region, but a terrorist attack would probably target less well defended sites. The uncertainty around Mr.

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