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Biden sends 'direct message' to Khamenei, warning against targeting US troops

US President Joe Biden has sent a direct message to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei against targeting US personnel in the region. 

"There was a direct message relayed," White House spokesman John Kirby said during a press briefing on Thursday. 

A day earlier, Biden said he warned Khamenei that the US would respond if its forces continued to be targeted.

"My warning to the Ayatollah was that if they continue to move against those troops, we will respond, and he should be prepared. It has nothing to do with Israel," the president said.