Israel Prepares for Potential Iranian Attack
In a high-stakes move, Israel’s prime minister is convening with top officials to brace for a potential strike from Iran, according to local media reports.
Tensions are soaring as fears mount over Tehran’s possible retaliation for an air strike that claimed the lives of senior Iranian commanders almost two weeks ago.
US officials, speaking to CBS News, the BBC’s US partner, have issued warnings of a looming “challenging” major attack on Israel.
Israel has made it clear that it is prepared both defensively and offensively for any potential threats.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is slated to hold discussions with members of his war cabinet, including Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and opposition figure Benny Gantz.
According to a US official interviewed by CBS, Iran may deploy over 100 drones, numerous cruise missiles, and potentially ballistic missiles in an attack targeting military installations in Israel.
However, there remains a possibility that Iran may choose to exercise restraint.
“I can’t speak to the size, scale, scope of what that attack might look like,” said US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Friday, emphasizing the credible nature of the Iranian threat and the close monitoring by Washington.
President Joe Biden has already assured Israel of unwavering support in the event of an Iranian attack.
The escalating tensions have prompted countries such as the US, UK, India, and Australia to caution against travel to Israel.
The US State Department has also restricted the movement of diplomatic personnel and their families in Israel to specific cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Beersheba.
Despite the apprehension surrounding a potential Iranian strike, some Israelis remain undeterred.
“We know that we are surrounded by enemies, in the south, in the north, the east and the west,” remarked Daniel Kosman from a market in Jerusalem. “We are not afraid, I can promise you. Look around: people are going out.”
The looming threat of an Iranian attack has stirred anxiety in Israel, although no new directives have been issued by the government beyond existing guidelines to stock up on essential supplies.
Israeli radio reports suggest that local authorities are preparing for the possibility of an attack by assessing the readiness of public shelters.
Amid early signs of a potential Iranian response, the Israeli military has taken preemptive measures such as canceling home leave for combat troops, reinforcing air defenses, and calling up reservists.
The missile strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus on 1 April resulted in the deaths of thirteen individuals, including senior Iranian military figures like Brig Gen Mohammad Reza Zahedi.
Although Israel has not officially acknowledged the attack, it is widely believed to be responsible.
Efforts are underway in multiple countries to dissuade Iran from launching an assault on Israel, as the repercussions could escalate into a broader regional conflict.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has engaged with foreign ministers of China, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey to leverage their influence with Iran.
Netanyahu has affirmed Israel’s readiness to address all security concerns, emphasizing the country’s preparedness to face any threats.
Following a meeting with the commander of US Central Command, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant underscored the strengthened alliance between the two nations in response to the Iranian threat, vowing a robust retaliation if necessary.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza was triggered by Hamas’ attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza Strip, resulting in casualties and hostage situations. Israel asserts that it is taking action to protect its citizens.
The conflict has extended beyond Gaza, with near-daily exchanges of fire along the northern border involving Hezbollah, as well as attacks on Israeli territory by Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Yemen.
Yemen’s Houthi movement has targeted shipping in the Red Sea, prompting military responses from the US and UK against the group. The region remains on high alert amidst escalating tensions. — BBC
