Israel is on high alert and preparing for possible military action against Iran in response to fears of an imminent retaliatory attack following the assassination of key Hamas and Hezbollah leaders in Tehran. The volatile situation has prompted top government and security officials in Israel to discuss various strategic options, including a pre-emptive strike on Iran, The Times of Israel reported.
During a recent high-level meeting led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the possibility of a pre-emptive strike was considered as a deterrent measure. Israeli security officials, however, emphasized that such action would only be authorized if there was conclusive intelligence indicating that Iran was poised to launch an attack against Israel.
The current uncertainty stems from the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr, which has heightened regional tensions. Both Israel and the United States remain uncertain about the specifics of a potential Iranian attack, as Tehran has yet to finalize its plans or fully coordinate with its proxy groups.
Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s stance in a social media post on Sunday, stating, “Iran and its minions are looking to surround us in a stranglehold of terrorism. We are determined to stand against them on every front and in every arena – near and far. Whoever seeks to harm us will pay a very heavy price.”
This situation follows an unprecedented assault by Iran in April, which caught Israel off guard. Israeli officials now believe they are better prepared, boasting an improved ability to intercept attacks. In the previous assault, Israel successfully intercepted approximately 99% of the missiles and drones launched from Iranian territory.
Despite the looming threat of a larger attack, Israeli assessments suggest that the country is capable of mounting an effective defense with the assistance of its allies. Both Washington and regional partners have urged Israel and Iran to de-escalate the situation to prevent a broader regional conflict.
In an effort to mediate the tensions, Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi visited Iran last week, emphasizing the need for dialogue. Safadi expressed Jordan’s commitment to the Palestinian cause and condemned Israeli actions that hinder peace efforts, calling for an end to the ongoing war in Gaza.
The region has been in turmoil since October 7, when Hamas launched a cross-border attack on Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 civilian deaths and the capture of 251 hostages. Israel’s subsequent offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip has led to significant casualties, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting over 39,000 people killed or presumed dead in Gaza.
