Israel is on high alert amid growing concerns of potential retaliation from Iran or its proxies following the recent killing of a senior officer at Iran’s embassy in Damascus. Warnings of retaliation have prompted several countries, including India, France, Poland, and Russia, to advise their citizens against traveling to the region, which is already tense due to ongoing conflict in Gaza.
White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby acknowledged the credible threat posed by Iran, adding to the sense of urgency in Israel. While the Israeli military has not issued new directives to civilians, they have urged vigilance in light of the evolving situation.
Chief military spokesman Daniel Hagari revealed that the Israeli military has conducted a thorough assessment of the situation and has approved plans to address various potential scenarios in the event of an Iranian attack.
Reports suggesting partial evacuation of Israeli diplomatic missions and heightened security measures remain unconfirmed by Israel’s foreign ministry. However, the sentiment of impending retaliation is echoed by Israel’s largest daily newspaper, Yedioth Ahronoth.
Although Israel has not claimed responsibility for the airstrike that killed Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi and other Iranian officers, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed retaliation, viewing the incident as an attack on Iranian soil.
Raz Zimmt, a senior researcher at Israel’s Institute for National Security Studies, believes that Iran is compelled to respond, even though it may prefer to avoid direct military confrontation with Israel and the United States.
In an attempt to coordinate a response and mitigate escalation, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and army chief General Herzi Halevi held discussions with General Michael Kurilla, head of the U.S. Central Command.
While sources indicate that Tehran wishes to avoid escalation and will not act hastily, the risk of an uncontrolled response remains. Given Iran’s perception of the embassy incident as an attack on its territory, the possibility of a direct attack on Israeli soil by Iran itself is considered plausible.
Israel has bolstered its air defenses in recent weeks, prepared for potential missile threats from Iran or its proxies. Additionally, the Israeli military has recalled reservists in anticipation of escalating tensions along its northern border, particularly with Hezbollah.
Despite these preparations, Israel remains on edge, with citizens bracing for possible disruptions. Some parents have even instructed their children to take school materials home for the Passover holiday, anticipating potential disruptions to lessons amidst the heightened security situation.
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